If you’re in Europe, there’s no better place to celebrate Pride month than Amsterdam. Hailed as the ‘Gay Capital of Europe’ and considered the birthplace of LGBT rights, the city founded one of the world’s first ever gay rights organizations back in 1946.
With a packed itinerary of parties and parades in the streets, and on the canals, we’ve put together our top tips for Amsterdam Pride so you can celebrate individuality and diversity to its fullest.
Is Amsterdam Pride the best party in Europe?
First Things First
To kick start the celebration, PrideWalk 2018 starts in Westermarkt with the motto ‘marching for those who can’t join us.’ 7,000 walkers will march to Vondelpark Open Air Theater and enjoy Pride Park 2018 for an afternoon of live music, games, performances and revelry…
Kick off Pride Week by checking out all the events happening around the city. Image Credit: Eileen.
Events for All Ages
There’s something for everyone at Amsterdam Pride, from youth events to senior celebrations scattered throughout the schedule. Youth specific events include Youth Pride Park and Youth Pride Walk to encourage young people to meet in a safe and comfortable environment to celebrate freely. Senior Pride events will also take place across the city, like Pink High Tea on Sunday July 29th and Senior Pride concert on August 2nd at Restaurant-Café In de Waag.
Canals, Canals, Canals…
One of Amsterdam’s most famous attractions is brought to life with the Canal Parade on Saturday August 4th. It is the pinnacle event of Pride and can be celebrated along the following route: Oosterdok – Nieuwe Herengracht – Amstel – Prinsengracht – Westerdok. With beautifully colorful floats working their way along just under 4 miles of canal, it’s a must-see event!
Celebrate by land and by sea (or, more accurately, canal). Image Credit: @es_pics via Twenty20.
Heading East
The 6th annual Pride East event will take place on August 1st from 15:00-22:00. This street party is for everyone, and we mean everyone! The event celebrates the East of Javaplein’s diversity, with a focus on inclusivity of origin, ideology, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender expression. Food stalls, drinks, art and DJs will all keep you entertained and as you take in this neighborhood party, you’ll feel as if you’re a local. The party will crank up as the Trans Pride Walk crowd arrive, so make sure you cheer as the party will be their finish line.
Wherever you are in the city, you’ll find the party! Image Credit: Partij van de Arbeid.
Swing by Kimpton
With so much going on, you’ll find Kimpton De Witt at the heart of all the action – the perfect hub for all things Pride/ Swing by for a cheeky tipple in House Bar and indulge at Wyers before you go forth and take on the night at a Pride party of your choice.
Get off your feet and relax at Kimpton De Witt. You’ll be only steps from the center of the party!
The Beach is Going Out With a Bang
Pride at the Beach will have its own stream of the events at Zandvoort aan Zee, a 90 minute train ride outside of Amsterdam. There is an exciting event line-up full of art, parties, street parades and a dance. The infamous Pride at the Beach Closing Party on 1st August at Club Nautique Zandvoort will round up the beach celebrations, be sure to stay until the end and watch the wonderful fireworks display.
Many bars and restaurants have their own unique celebrations to support the festivities around the city. Image credit: @jdcphotos via Twenty20.
See you at Amsterdam Pride!
