Amsterdam is well known as a progressive and alternative city, adding character and excitement to the capitals of Europe. We welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors from all walks of life and every country of the world to experience the vibrancy and colour of our city every year. With such a colourful dynamic, it’s not surprising that Amsterdam Pride is widely celebrated as one of the best events in Amsterdam every year. This annual event, which usually starts with a parade and ends in a nightclub, has something for people of all ages and preferences. Here is your essential guide to Amsterdam Pride for 2024.

Amsterdam Pride

Amsterdam Pride is not just a day or a weekend celebration. For two weeks, the whole city celebrates with parties, parades, music, and more to honour lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer identities. Over half a million people visit the city to celebrate Pride each year and there are events across the spectrum from theatre performances to raves. Whether you’re an art lover or a party animal, there’s something for everyone. The main weekend for Amsterdam Gay Pride is from Friday 2 August until Sunday 4 August 2024 and all of the main events and raves take place over this weekend. Attendees are encouraged to wear their brightest most outrageous outfits with plenty of rainbow colours.

What’s on Amsterdam Pride?

Pride Walk Amsterdam

The opening event for Amsterdam Pride each year is Pride Walk, where people from all over the world parade to commemorate equality. Inspiring speeches are given to campaign against LGBTQI+ discrimination. The route is different every year but the parade always passes through the city centre of Amsterdam. Anyone can take part in the parade and spectators are encouraged to wear bright colours and bring any flags and signs to show your support.

After the parade keep the good spirit going at the opening party to launch the pride, enjoying celebrations dancing, live music, stalls, and even sports. After the main walk take part in TransWalk specifically dedicated to raising awareness for transgender rights

LoveSwim

Only the brave can face the chilling waters of the Amstel River but LoveSwim is a great excuse to be courageous. The swim is organised to show support for the LGBTQI+ community. Participants must register in advance and can swim up to 1,500 meters.

Milkshake Festival

Taking place in the heart of the city, Milkshake is a two-day dance festival. A great variety of artists perform electronic, house, disco, R&B, and pop music. It’s a great place for connecting with the LGBTQIA+ community while dancing the night away.

Canal Pride

Canal Pride is one of the most well-known events of the week and truly a celebration not to be missed. Over 80 themed floats sail down the Amstel River, complete with DJs, go-go dancers, drag queens, and more. It’s the most over-the-top display and thousands of spectators attend to take pictures and soak up the atmosphere.

Cultural Events

If your idea of a good time is theatre, concerts and quieter events over raves and parties, there are plenty of cultural events to look forward to during Pride. The week is brimming with film screenings, exhibitions, book events, dances, concerts, and more. Events pop up everywhere and there will be a list on the official Pride website.

Street Parties

In between large events, there are dozens of unofficial street parties. You’ll find these everywhere in Amsterdam from streets to private homes. They’ll be in every neighbourhood and are usually welcoming to strangers. They start in the afternoon and run until around midnight. They’re unofficial so there are no rules or supervision so be careful, as you would be in any main city.

Clubbing in Amsterdam

If you want to keep the party going after midnight, you can find some of Amsterdam’s many LGBTQI+-friendly clubs. Popular options include Club NYX, The Queen’s Head, Club Church, and Taboo. Some clubs are open until 5 am.

Closing Party

If you’re still hungry for more after two weeks of parties, the Closing Party is the final showstopper to wrap up Amsterdam Pride. Artists and performers take to the grand stage each year, set up in front of the Royal Palace at Dam Square.

Book the perfect accommodation for Amsterdam Pride at PREMIER SUITES Amsterdam. We’re located outside the city so you’re guaranteed a great night’s sleep while being a short ride away from the action. The additional space of a serviced apartment is ideal for making yourself fabulous for a day and night of celebration too! Book on our website for our lowest available rates, guaranteed.