Your guide to WorldPride in Amsterdam 2026

It’s almost time for Pride in Amsterdam! Between 25 July and 8 August, the city will be transformed into a colourful backdrop for WorldPride 2026. This is the first time Amsterdam has hosted this international event, making this edition bigger and more festive than ever. As well as the Pride Walk and the iconic Canal Parade, there are countless events raising awareness of the LGBTIQ+ community and the importance of equal rights, acceptance and inclusion. Are you in Amsterdam during these two weeks? This guide will help you get the most out of your visit. Discover the best events, useful tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to Pride.

The most fun WorldPride events

The first Pride event took place in 1996, and this year marks the 30th edition. Amsterdam is hosting WorldPride this year, so this edition is set to be bigger than ever. Did you know that 25 years ago, the first civil marriages between people of the same sex were officiated in Amsterdam? For this reason, Queen Máxima will open WorldPride in the Vondelpark on 25 July.

Pride Walk

• What? Join the walk through the centre of Amsterdam during the opening weekend of Pride 2026 and, together with thousands of others, show how important freedom, equality and inclusion are.
• When? 25 July, 11.00 – 15.00
• Where? Start: Dam Square. Finish: Vondelpark (Pride Park)
• Accessibility: Free

Canal Parade

• What? Amsterdam is famous for its canals, so a party on the water is, of course, a must. Admire the colourfully decorated boats from the quay or experience the Canal Parade from a boat.
• When? 1 August, 12.00 – 18.00
• Where? The Canal Parade sails through the Oosterdok, the Nieuwe Herengracht, the Amstel, the Prinsengracht and the Westerdok.
• Accessibility: Free. For a unique experience from the water, you can book a spot on board a party boat, such as the one run by our friends at Lovely Cruises.

Experience the Canal Parade with Lovely Cruises

During the Canal Parade, there’s plenty of partying on Amsterdam’s canals, and of course you’ll want to be there! Amsterdam is famous for its canals, and it’s no surprise that the Canal Parade is world-renowned. Are you in Amsterdam on 1 August between 12.00 and 18.00 and up for a party? Then we’ve got something special for you: an exclusive party on board Lovely Cruises’ open boat!

The boat won’t be taking part in the parade itself, but will remain moored at the Prinsengracht quay. During this six-hour boat party, you can not only dance and enjoy the best music, but also admire the beautifully decorated boats of the Canal Parade as they sail past you. Of course, all that partying will make you thirsty, but don’t worry! On board, you can enjoy unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks. So what are you waiting for? Hop aboard Lovely Cruises’ Pride Amsterdam 2026 Canal Parade Boat Party and celebrate Pride from a unique location!

Street parties

• What? Cafés and restaurants across Amsterdam are organising lively street parties. Come along and join in the celebrations!
• When? 31 July 16:00 – 00:00, 1 August 15:00 – 00:00, 2 August 14:00 – 23:00
• Where? At various locations near cafés and restaurants in the centre of Amsterdam. The main stage is on Dam Square.
• Accessibility: Free.

WorldPride Village

• What? A multi-day festival featuring live music, food and information stalls run by LGBTQIA+ organisations.
• When? 4 August 17.30 – 23.00, 5 August 12.00 – 23.00, 6 August 12.00 – 17.00 (from 17.00: Wedding Party XXL), 7 August 12.00 – 00.00 and 8 August 12.00 – 17.00 (from 17.00: Closing Concert)
• Where? Museum Square
• Accessibility: Free. You will need a ticket for the Wedding Party XXL and the Closing Concert from 17.00 onwards.

WorldPride March

• What? A parade and demonstration bringing together people from all over the world. The march focuses on freedom, solidarity and the right to be yourself anytime, anywhere.
• When? 8 August, 2.00 pm – 6.00 pm
• Where? The route starts at Martin Luther King Park and ends at Museum Square.
• Access: Free.

WorldPride Closing Concert

• What? Bring WorldPride to a festive close with a concert featuring performances by various artists.
• When? 8 August, 5.30 pm – midnight
• Where? Museum Square
• Accessibility: You’ll need a ticket for the WorldPride Closing Concert.

Even more fun things to do in Amsterdam

As well as the special Pride events, there’s plenty more to experience in Amsterdam. Why not take a canal cruise and discover Amsterdam from the water? During Pride, the city comes alive with colour, celebration and a unique atmosphere that you can experience from the canals. On 1 August, you can still enjoy a 1-hour Lovers Canal Cruise departing from Central Station or Leidseplein. As the Canal Parade takes place that day, the boats follow a special alternative route and are not part of the parade itself. Please note that departures from the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum are not available on this day.

Looking for a truly unique experience? Step into the Amsterdam Icebar and enjoy an unforgettable adventure in a bar made entirely of ice! With temperatures dropping to -10°C, you'll be surrounded by stunning ice walls and impressive ice sculptures. Immerse yourself in the story of the legendary explorer Willem Barentsz and discover what it feels like to brave the Arctic. Sip an ice-cold drink from a glass carved from ice, capture amazing photos, and enjoy one of Amsterdam’s coolest attractions!

Tips for a well-prepared Pride

• Use public transport, walk or hire a bike. In the city centre, these are the most convenient ways to get around, as many roads are closed to cars during Pride.
• Arrive at events in good time. This way, you’ll increase your chances of getting a good spot and won’t miss out on any of the atmosphere.
• Dress in bright, festive colours, but make sure you’re comfortable too. Be prepared for both hot days and an unexpected rain shower, as the weather in Amsterdam can be changeable.
• Bring a fully charged power bank, a bottle of water and sun cream. This way, you’ll stay in touch, find your way around easily and protect yourself from the sun.
• Respect the residents of Amsterdam. Keep the city clean, don’t leave any rubbish behind and be considerate of the people who live there.

Celebrate WorldPride 2026 in Amsterdam

With this guide, you’ll be all set to discover Amsterdam during the two weeks of Pride festivities, from 25 July to 8 August. Take part in the Pride Walk and the WorldPride March, join the celebrations on board Lovely Cruises during the Canal Parade, or visit one of the many activities the city has to offer. Whether it’s Pride or not, there’s always something going on in Amsterdam. But during WorldPride 2026, the city will have that little bit extra. That’s why this is a special time to visit the city. Enjoy!