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Organizing your event

Do you want to organize an event but don't know where to start? Check out the answers in this FAQ to help you get started.

What is the size and capacity of the space?

We have a 200m2 terrace and 300m2 inside. Of this space, approximately 112m2 is used by the bar, kitchen, and toilets. This leaves 188m2 for dining, dancing, drinking, meeting, and performing. The space and kitchen are completely open. The only kind of separation that can be created is through the use of large curtains. These curtains are not soundproof.

We divide the space into three zones:

  • Zone 1 - 54m2, seats a maximum of 50 guests: this space is used for movie screenings, music events, lectures, and meetings. It can be closed off easily with curtains. 

  • Zone 2 - 45m2, seats a maximum of 40 guests: this space is used for restaurant pop-ups and in combination with zone 1 for music/dance events of up to 100 guests. For large dance/music events for up to 150 guests, we combine zone 2 and 3.

  • Zone 3 - 65m2, seats a maximum of 65 guests: this is our primary dining space. Here TestTafel serves its 7-course dinners and the De Sering community kitchen is here. Our bar is also here.

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What does the space cost to rent?

We rarely ask for rent and rely more on the income from our bar and food. We do occasionally request rent for day events. Events that are non-profit, activist, and socially beneficial are often excluded from this.

 

What food is available?

We have a variety of options which vary depending on the day of the week of your event. Contact us to confirm which offer is best suited to you. Examples would be: 

  • Our specialty - 7 courses for a donation between 35- and 65-. For groups larger than 10 we ask a minimum contribution of 40-.

  • 3 courses for 30- to 40-. For groups larger than 10 we ask a minimum contribution of 35-.

  • 2 courses for 5-. Activist organizations can get a special deal for a donation between 2,50- and 7,50-.

  • Borrel snacks vary in price per portion. One portion is roughly the equivalent of 4 bitterballen.

 

Is there a sample menu?

Our menu is constantly growing and changing. Please see our social media for examples of what we have to offer: @testtafel and @de_sering .

 

Are drinks available? Can we have a bar tab?

Drinks can be purchased at the bar. Tabs can be requested, contact us to set a limit. We also have drinks tokens available. We often ask for a bar guarantee if we feel that a target cannot be met through selling drinks or food. This way we can avoid asking for rent. The bar guarantee is based on whether or not the event conflicts with our usual activities that bring in money. If it does, we ask for a bar guarantee for the income we would miss. If we only miss part of the income we only ask for that part as a guarantee, for example, if you take up half of the space.

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What are the opening hours?

We are open from 09:00 until 23:00 almost every day of the week, see here for the full details. When hosting night events, we close by 03:00 on a weekend (Friday and Saturday) and 01:00 throughout the week (Tuesday - Thursday) .

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What time can I host my event?

Depending on what kind of event you are hosting, we have different time slots available. This is because we aim to host your event in tandem with our permanent agenda. See the table for our available time slots. Different time slots require different bar guarantees owing to their overlap with our permanent events. Please contact us to find out specific figures.

 

What does De Sering expect from me as an event organiser?

We expect you to treat the space and the people in it with respect and kindness. To ensure that we are all on the same page, De Sering has different event agreements that all organisers are required to review and sign. This contains an elaboration of what we expect from you, what you can expect from us and other necessary information required. You can request to view this agreement by contacting us via email.

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What equipment is available?

Sound equipment. This equipment can be rented for 100-. For non-profit and public events we can offer it for free. Due to ongoing repairs we do not have a DJ deck available but are happy to make a rental suggestion. Available equipment includes: 

  • Our soundsystem specifics can be found here, it includes 4 x Behringer B1520 and 2 x Behringer B1800

  • Mixers: Soundcraft mixer, Yamaha mixer MG16xu in taperack, Klark teknik SQ1 graf eq ex SSV

  • FOH rack: 13HE

  • Microphone: 1 x wired

Lighting equipment. Our lights are available to use for events. Our usual lighting set up includes:

  • Ground control app: LightRider Classic

  • 4 x Showtec LED par

  • 1 x ADJ saber spot rgbw

  • 14 x LED party rgb spot

  • 1 x disco ball with Eurolite MD 3030 DMX safety rotary motor

Presentation equipment. For speakers and presentations, we also offer the necessary tools:

  • Beamer and screen: 100-

  • Speaker and microphone: 50-

 

Is there a cloakroom?

We have a small space to hang jackets and coats using a coat rack, 'cloakroom' is a generous term.

 

Is there heating?

We have heating in the building but not outside.

 

Is there an outside space?

There is a small outside space covered by an awning.

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Do I need security?

Security is necessary for all public events. We do not provide security, soliciting this service is up to the event organizer, but we can make suggestions if need be.

 

Who is responsible for the decoration and cleanup?

We have set decorations for the space we regularly use, e.g. white tablecloths, candles, and napkins, but do not provide anything further. Decorations are up to the event organizer and we also ask that the organizer removes everything they have brought with them at the end of the event. Our space is constantly in use and we hope to maintain the area fairly for everyone that uses it, thus please be respectful of the space.

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Is the space accessible?

Wheelchair/disabled walking: We have one wheelchair-accessible toilet (out of a total of three toilets). There are no steps to enter the building. It is worth noting that our floor is a bit uneven here and there.

Using a lift: We do not have a lift, we are only on the ground floor.

Parking: It is not possible to park on the premises. There are public parking spaces around the property, but we cannot guarantee availability.

Visual impairment: assistance dogs are welcome.

Hearing impairment: There is no audio system for assistance.

Intellectual disability/mental disability: assistance dogs are welcome.

Language: Most of our communication and menus are written in English and many, but not all, of our staff are not fluent Dutch speakers. Some our our events are held in Dutch and some in English. If you require any translations either way during your time here, please let us know.

Drop by in advance to see the venue: Yes, this is always possible by sending us an email or just dropping by during opening hours.

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Do you still have questions?

We are happy to answer them, feel free to email info@testtafel.nl or info@desering.org or fill out the contact form .

A public space, community kitchen, and host to your initiatives. 

The beating heart of De Sering. A community kitchen that serves two courses and homemade bread for 2.50,-

The in house coffee pop-up of De Sering. The best coffee in Amsterdam for the best price. 

The experimental  restaurant of De Sering. A weekly changing three or seven course menu, natural wines and cocktails

De Sering is host to a great scala of events and initiatives. Check here to find out what's going on and how your idea can be among the list!

Both De Sering & TestTafel are available for catering. From intimate ten courses at home to thousands of meals on the barricades.

I want to use the space!
Help us out by sending your request through this form.
You will receive an answer as soon as possible!

 

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