Amsterdam Prepares to Welcome its First Bear Bar

Bears Amsterdam will open in May and become the first specifically bear bar in Amsterdam.

John Hernandez (JH): What led to the decision to close The Web?

Arjan Kröner (AK): The Web has a rich and meaningful history. Born in the turbulent 1980s, it quickly gained a reputation as the “social cruising bar.” Not that there was any shortage of steamy parties, but The Web was always about more than just chasing the next tight pair of jeans. That sense of connection has always remained part of its DNA.

When we took over The Web in 2016 and began organizing more events specifically for the bear community, we quickly saw how much they were appreciated. 

After COVID, it became harder to bounce back. People started going out in different ways, cruising habits shifted, and much of that energy moved into more private spaces. Fortunately, the socials that had made their home with us—like BLUF, Bereborrel, MSA, and DRUM—remained well attended. But for a truly sustainable future, we realized that alone might not be enough.

For many in the bear community, The Web had already become their unofficial “Bear Cave.” To reflect our commitment and love for this community, rebranding to Bears Amsterdam felt not only natural—it was the only logical step.

JH: How will Bears Amsterdam be different to The Web? How will it be the same?

AK: Naturally, we’re giving the interior a small makeover, and the change will also be clearly visible on the outside. During the upcoming Amsterdam Bear Pride, we’re going bigger than ever—with highlights including our beloved Bear Brunch and the crowning of Mr. Lumberjack 2025.

What won’t change is the warm welcome. Our full name makes it clear: *Bears Amsterdam – for Bears and Friends.* While our identity may become a little furrier, we remain an open home for all fetish groups within the LGBTQIA+ community.

JH: And just for context, can you share how popular bears are in Amsterdam? Is it true Bears Amsterdam bar will be the only official venue for bears specifically in the country?

AK: Just look at the popularity of events like Bear Necessity, Fur Ball, Bear Bash, and Bereborrel—each of them fills up multiple times a year. And beyond the events, bears themselves hold a special place in LGBTQIA+ nightlife. They’re empathetic, well-mannered, and not quick to judge.

Of course, there are other venues where bears feel at home. But Bears Amsterdam is the first place that, in both name and spirit, puts bears front and center.