Celebrate Pride in the Netherlands this summer

'Pride' is the name of the day or week when

Although 'Pride' once began as a protest, over the years it has become more of a celebration. Still, the fight for equal rights for LGBTIA+ individuals is not over. Many LGBTQIA+ individuals still face discrimination and violence, including in the Netherlands.

Amsterdam also hosts a Black Pride where people stand up against racism. This initiative began because many organisations want to be inclusive but do not clearly speak out against racism. The Pride movement owes much to the 1960s anti-racism movement and activists of colour who played an important role in LGBTQIA+ protests.

In fact, in many other countries it is still illegal to be homosexual, making it too dangerous for many LGBTQIA+ people there and they often try to flee. During 'Pride', therefore, attention is drawn to the inequality that still exists.

The first Gay Pride was in 1970 in New York. It was a protest.

Homosexual men, lesbian women and transvestites revolted when police tried to evict them from their pubs for the umpteenth time. After years of bullying and violence, LGBTQIA+ people revolted. The riots and protests lasted 6 days. This was the beginning of the struggle for equal rights for LGBTQIA+ people.

In 2026, Amsterdam will make history: for the first time ever, the city will host WorldPride. This international event is a global symbol of visibility, equality and the promotion of the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The fact that WorldPride is coming to Amsterdam is special. In 2026, it will be exactly 25 years since the Netherlands became the first country in the world to open up marriage to same-sex couples. This was a historic milestone that has been of great significance worldwide for the emancipation of LGBTQIA+ people. Click here to read more about the history of LGBTQIA+ rights in the Netherlands

For 2 weeks (from 25 July to 8 August), Amsterdam will be all about diversity, inclusion and the freedom to be yourself. Events, gatherings, performances and activities will take place throughout the city. The highlight is the famous Canal Parade on Saturday 1 August 2026. During this colourful parade, dozens of boats will sail through Amsterdam's canals. Every day features a packed programme.

This large, colourful boat parade attracts more than 300,000 visitors every year. Many people from abroad come to watch it too. Make sure you arrive early, otherwise there will not be any space left. Everyone stands shoulder to shoulder on the bridges or along the canals. There are 80 boats taking part for you to admire. And everyone dances, parties, sings and waves to one another. Not just on the boats, but on the banks too.

You do not have to celebrate 'Pride' in Amsterdam. You can go to Pride in many cities in the Netherlands. And in some cities, 'Pride' has already happened. Here you can still celebrate Pride this summer:

• Pride Rotterdam 3 June

• Pride Utrecht 6 June

• Pride Eindhoven 13 June

• Pride Leeuwarden 13 June

• Pride Groningen 20 June

• Pride Noordwijk 27 June

• Pride Leiden 5 September