Dutch nightclubs must close by 9:00 PM for the next three weeks under new government restrictions. They began on Saturday, November 13.
The restrictions come as the Netherlands faces a large increase in COVID-19 cases. As of November 15th, there has been a seven-day average of 14,449 new cases. There were 19,197 new cases reported on November 15th alone.
Dutch Caretaker Prime Minister Mark Rutte confirmed that the restrictions will stay active until December 4th, but that venues may have to stay shut down past that date.
Restaurants, bars, and other businesses not considered essential must close by 7:00 PM. Sporting events will continue as scheduled but without spectators. The Dutch government is encouraging citizens to work from home whenever possible. Schools, cinemas, and theaters will remain open as usual under the restrictions.
According to government statistics, 87.9% of Dutch citizens 18 and over have received their first vaccination shot while 84.4% are fully vaccinated.
The lockdown comes as Dutch nightlife struggles to make a comeback. Back in July of 2021, the Dutch government completely shut down clubs and music venues after reopening them weeks before. In response, tens of thousands of people protested in Amsterdam, Groningen, Nijmegen, Utrecht, and Rotterdam with the goal of having the ban lifted by September 1st.
