Amsterdam hosts one of the most fabulous gay pride celebrations in the world. The Amsterdam Pride Parade takes place on the city’s famous canals, traversing Prinsengracht from the west, down to the Amstel River then up to Oosterdok. Ninety boats took part in the parade last Saturday, and we were lucky to have a place to sit and watch them all go by.
After Queen’s Day, Pride is the biggest party of the year. The streets are filled with pink-clad revelers, and the canals are lined with boats throwing their own little rainbow celebrations. The best way to watch Pride is from an apartment with a view on the Prinsengracht (we were lucky enough to be invited to one); otherwise come before the parade starts at 2pm and occupy a spot on a bridge or by the canal.
Pride is a fantastic day for people-watching…
because the folks on the boats and streets can be just as colorful and interesting as the parade itself.
But we’re here for the parade, right? Let’s start the show!
