Pride Amsterdam 2025: dates, theme, canal parade

One of Europe's most popular gay festivals, Pride Amsterdam 2025 is taking place from 26th July to 3rd August! And unlike most cities, this one takes place on a canal!

Celebrate Love with Pride

The theme for Pride Amsterdam 2025 is LOVE. It represents not only romance but also the foundation for connection, understanding and solidarity.

Amsterdam Pride usually sees dozens of spectacularly decorated boats will sail through Amsterdam's canals, with 500,000+ spectators. Events such as Pink Tours at the Rijksmuseum and performances of Off-Broadway classic Fun Home made Pride extremely special.

The main event is the world-renowned Amsterdam Gay Pride Canal Parade that will take place on August 2nd, 2025, from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM. This exceptional event takes place along the picturesque waterways of Oosterdok, Nieuwe Herengracht, Amstel, Prinsengracht, and Westerdok.

The canal parade, a true spectacle in itself, stands as the central attraction of the vibrant Amsterdam Pride celebrations. Be captivated by the procession of lavishly adorned floats, where the term 'float' takes on a literal and extravagant significance. On the second Saturday of the festivities, a fleet of 80 creatively themed vessels bask in the Dutch sunlight, accompanied by onboard DJs who infuse the parade with infectious beats. Their captivating themes and beaming smiles create a show that wows both the audience along the Prinsengracht and Amstel River.

Amidst this colorful display, smaller boats gather along the canal walls and at the confluence of adjacent watercourses. Their occupants revel in the celebration, coming together to form a colossal flotilla of merriment. As the boats shimmy and sway, an air of festivity fills the Amsterdam atmosphere, making the Canal Parade an event of sheer jubilation and monumental celebration of inclusivity and diversity.

Where to Stay for Amsterdam Pride?

For hotel reservations, check our list of top Amsterdam hotels for gay travelers.