Just say Know ♥ Inform Yourself
Inform yourself about the risks of alcohol and other drugs
Be drink and drug aware – don’t overdo it.
The use of alcohol or other drugs always carries risks. Inform yourself about the risks and how you can limit them. Check Unity online or if they’re around at a party have a chat with the Unity volunteers.
New alcohol law
A new alcohol law has been in place since 1 July 2021. Alcohol was already not allowed to be sold to visitors under the age of 18. But if you are under 18, you can now also be fined if you buy, carry or accept alcohol from someone else. In addition, someone over 18 who buys alcohol for someone under 18 is also punishable.
Drug policy
Bringing drugs into a club or a bar is prohibited. You’ll be searched by security staff at the entrance. If you’re found to be carrying drugs, you could be handed over to police. Visitors from abroad should keep in mind that most venues other than coffeeshops do not allow soft drugs to be consumed on their premises. In other words, there’s a chance you are not allowed to bring cannabis or it, even in the smoking area. Make sure you check the house policy!
Ignore street dealers!
There are many street dealers active in Amsterdam. Whatever you do, ignore them and do not buy drugs from them. The drugs they offer can contain anything from vitamin C or washing powder to very dangerous substances. They can sometimes be very aggressive. If you are harassed by a drug dealer on the street, help yourself and Amsterdam by reporting it to the police.
Drug checking
The strength of illegal drugs can vary enormously. Get your drugs tested. This reduces your likelihood of having a bad time or needing medical help.
- Check Unity for drug checking service info, addresses & opening hours in English.
- In Amsterdam, the test services will be opened extra in the period around ADE.
Opening hours drug checking service during ADE
When | Opening hours | Location |
Monday | 17.00-20.30 | Jellinek, Jacob Obrechtstraat 92 |
Monday | 17.30-20.30 | GGD Amsterdam, Valckenierstraat 4 |
Tuesday | 17.00-20.30 | Jellinek, Jacob Obrechtstraat 92 |
Tuesday | 17.30-20.30 | GGD Amsterdam, Valckenierstraat 4 |
Wednesday | 17.00-20.30 | Jellinek, Jacob Obrechtstraat 92 |
Wednesday | 17.30-20.30 | GGD Amsterdam, Valckenierstraat 4 |
Thursday | 17.00-20.30 | Jellinek, Jacob Obrechtstraat 92 |
Thursday | 17.30-20.30 | GGD Amsterdam, Valckenierstraat 4 |
Friday | 17.00-20.30 | Jellinek, Jacob Obrechtstraat 92 |
Friday | 17.30-20.30 | GGD Amsterdam, Valckenierstraat 4 |
Saturday | 13.30-16.30 | GGD Amsterdam, Valckenierstraat 4 |
Check drugs-test.nl for other locations in The Netherlands.
Stay informed
Follow Unity on Instagram.