Amsterdam Pride: everything you need to know

Every summer at the beginning of August, Amsterdammers celebrate everything LGBTQ+. Originally a one-day event, Amsterdam Pride has grown in scale and importance over the past 25 years, becoming ever more inclusive along the way. Today, it’s a beloved tradition, combining Amsterdam’s anything-goes attitude with an everyone-is-welcome mantra for a week of joyful and decadent celebration.

Amsterdam Pride kicks off with a Pride Walk from the Homomonument to Vondelpark. Bring a sign, paint your face, or just show up and be yourself. Be prepared to make a few friends along the way because this event is all about good vibes, big smiles and sunshine – assuming the notoriously fickle Dutch weather cooperates. But even if a quick squall from the North Sea blows through, think of it as an opportunity to spot a rainbow in the wild – a fortunate omen during Pride.

Openluchttheater is an open-air theatre in Vondelpark that serves as the main stage for the Pride Park official opening party. It’s a vibrant festival scene, with DJs, dancing, spoken word and drag theatricality. There's an aptly named Rainbow Market, and plenty of sports and games hosted by local LGBTQ+ groups. The only thing they’re missing is you!

In recent years, Amsterdam Pride has expanded in a westerly direction, all the way to Zandvoort. This hot spot by the dunes has joined in the celebrations by creating a three-day Pride at the Beach event that is especially popular with LGBTQ+ families. The trek by train from Amsterdam is quick and direct, making this an easy and fun day trip.

Dam Square is where Dutch citizens have traditionally gathered to raise their political voices, making it an ideal spot for the Pride Closing Party. Think of it as you would a political party – with a big emphasis on the word party.

We've highlighted the biggest events happening during Pride Amsterdam above, but you’ll find tons of smaller events scattered throughout the city. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Open Air Cinema: Talking is usually discouraged at the movies, but this is the kind of event where yelling out famous lines from kitschy movies is encouraged. Check the Amsterdam Pride website for the latest information about where and when COVID-safe watching parties might take place this year.
• Did you come to Pride to dance? You’ll find plenty of smaller parties around the city.