Amsterdam Pride is one of the highlights of the summer as thousands of people descend on the centre of the Dutch Capital to enjoy one of the city’s biggest and most colourful celebrations. The main canal parade (which takes place on the 3rd August) sees a whole load of brilliant floats and boats travelling along the Amsterdam canals, with music blaring and a great party atmosphere to be enjoyed across the city.
Alongside King’s Day, Pride is one of two occasions when the city turns into one big street party – except unlike Kings Day, it’s rainbow coloured, not orange! Pride is often described as a bit like Gay Christmas and if you’re lucky enough to be in Amsterdam for this weekend, you’ll see why – so let your hair down and enjoy the party! Although Pride has a serious message of tolerance and freedom (both important aspects of Dutch culture), Amsterdammers also love an excuse to have a drink or two, and this is definitely one of them, as everybody, gay or straight, joins the party!
Pride is one of Amsterdam’s biggest annual events and a great chance to experience the city’s famous canal belt by boat! The route of the canal parade goes from the Scheepvaart museum all the way along the Prinsengracht to Westerdok. Along the way, the canals are lined with cheering spectators – although bridges are often the best viewing points (particularly Magere Brug and those along the Prinsengracht are particularly well-sited), they do get very busy so arrive early for a good spot and crack open a cold beer (Gay Pride is one of the very few days of the year that drinking openly in the street is tolerated in Amsterdam)!
Best things to do in Amsterdam during Gay Pride
Although the Canal Parade is the highlight of Pride for many people, it is by no means the only party in town. With Westerpark’s Milkshake Festival taking place over the weekend and a wide variety of street parties and club nights across the city, there’s really something for everyone during the pride weekend.
Amsterdam Pride 2019 Dates and Info
Amsterdam Pride takes place from 27th July – 4th August with the main Canal Parade starting at 12.30 on 3rd August. For more information click here for the official Amsterdam Pride site.
