Amsterdam is one of the most gay-friendly cities and around 150,000 people come yearly to see the Canal Parade display of 100 boats decorated in the most bizarre ways! Moreover, enormous amounts of street parties and open-air performances take place. The event promises to be more than fun!
Canal Parade
The Canal Parade is the highlight of Amsterdam’s Pride celebrations, featuring a procession of 80 elaborately decorated boats. According to the organizers, each boat is selected through a rigorous process to ensure they align with the year’s theme, "TOGETHER".
Parade Route
The parade route begins at Oosterdok, continues through Nieuwe Herengracht, Amstel, and Prinsengracht, and ends at Westerdok, offering numerous spots for spectators to enjoy the view. The best photo opportunities are on the sides of bridges, particularly on Prinsengracht and at the Magere Brug on the Amstel river.
Parties and Performances
Apart from the boat parade, the event promises various street parties and open-air performances. Notable locations for these celebrations include Amstelveld, Dam Square, and Rembrandtplein. These spots are popular for their spaciousness and vibrant atmosphere, making them perfect for families and groups of friends. For those interested in indoor events, FunHouse XXL – the Pride Edition at GasHouder will host over 6,000 partygoers from 10 pm to 7 am.
Tickets and Parking
While the parade itself is free to attend, specific events and parties may require tickets. For example, the FunHouse XXL event charges € 50.61 for a regular entrance ticket. Regarding parking, the organizers strongly advise using public transportation due to limited parking availability and road closures. Amsterdam Central Station and Amsterdam Zuid are convenient starting points, with the latter providing easy access to the parade route via the new metro line to Vijzelgracht.
History of the Festival
The Amsterdam Gay Pride Canal Parade has a rich history, dating back to its inception in 1996. Initially a modest event, it has grown into one of the world’s most renowned Pride celebrations. Over the years, the parade has seen various themes and notable events, each contributing to the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
