Unlike any other gay parade this one is held on the canals of Amsterdam, in brightly decorated barges and boats. This year Amsterdam is the host of Europride!
One of the events not to be missed is the Drag Queen Olympics, with events like the Handbag Throw, The high heal race and the tug of war. Last year over 30 drag queens took part in the hilarious event.
The canal parade is the festival’s centrepiece, where lavishly decorated barges give the term ‘float’ a literal meaning. On the second Saturday of the festival, participants on 80 vessels soak up the Dutch sun and put on a show with their onboard DJs, show-stopping themes and plenty of smiles, pleasing all spectators on the banks of the Prinsengracht and Amstel River. Smaller boats line the canal walls and at the mouths of adjoining canals, enjoying the party by shimmying up to each other, forming a huge flotilla of fun.
Several circuit parties also hold events during Amsterdam Gay Pride including Friday’s SuperMartXe in club Air, a Dance and cruise party in Club Fuxxx, the popular underwear party in Club Church and Club Dirty Boys cruise party.
On Saturday, Rapido host the XL Experience at the Heineken Music Hall, with more than 4000 people. Saturday also sees the famous White Party take place in the Melkweg. The popular Bear Necessity men’s party is a must for macho hairy guys and admirers and don’t forget, the sold-out Poppie Party at the Odeon Theatre.
Sunday is host to the Pride Closing Party at the Rembrandtplein that starts in the afternoon with many Dutch artists and DJ’s, Celebrating the last day gay pride.
Hotel rooms in Amsterdam tend to be smaller then you may be used to, because most of the buildings are narrow and tall.
Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action
De L’Europe, Doelen, Albus Hotel, Inntel Hotels.
If you would like to know more about gay Amsterdam check out www.gayamsterdam4u.com