Amsterdam is set to host WorldPride 2026 from July 25 to August 8, marking the first time the Dutch capital has welcomed the global event.
The celebration comes 26 years after the Netherlands legalized same-sex marriage.
>>> Lexus Flight: Luxury Helicopter Charter Service Launches in Japan
Organized by InterPride under the theme of unity, the multi-week festival is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of international visitors.
The program includes cultural events, human rights conferences, and major live performances across the city.
Canal Parade Highlights
The centerpiece Canal Parade will take place on Saturday, August 1, featuring approximately 80 decorated boats traveling from Oosterdok to Westerdok.
Organizers anticipate between 500,000 and 750,000 spectators along the city's iconic waterways.
For the first time in the event's history, a 300-meter temporary grandstand will be built along the Prinsengracht.
Named the WorldPride Canal Parade Stadium, it offers 10,000 paid ticketed seats ranging from 15 to 275 euros.
>>> Kashmir Clashes Intensify Amid Protests and Communications Blackout
Local residents have shared their views on the setup.
One resident living on the third floor told AT5 they could easily look over the temporary stands from their apartment.
Another resident on the fifth floor told AT5 they believed they had the best seat for the event.
Madonna to Perform
Pop icon Madonna has confirmed she will perform on August 1 at the World Pride Music Festival, alongside Stuart Price and Honey Dijon.
The performance follows the July release of her album Confessions II.
Ahead of her announcement, Madonna posted a Dutch message on social media, translating lyrics from her single and writing that she had something she wanted to talk about.
>>> Teen Driver Without License Arrested After Reckless Pursuit in Bergen op Zoom
The WorldPride program continues through August 8, featuring the Unity Concert on August 4, the Wedding Party XXL on August 6, and a Closing Concert at Museumplein featuring Olly Alexander.
