Canal Parade

When: August 6
Where: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Cost: Free

The spectacular Canal Parade is the highlight of the annual Amsterdam Pride celebrations.

Up to 100 boats carrying costumed party people are watched by around 350,000 people as they pass down the city’s main canals each year. The event has grown in popularity since it began in 1995.

With gaily decorated flat-bottomed boats and barges ferrying flamboyant dancers and partygoers along Amsterdam’s waterways, it’s also hard to miss.

The parade sets off from the Westerdok at approximately 2 p.m. and goes along the Prinsengracht canal to the Amstel before finishing at the Oosterdok at around 5 p.m.

The best places to watch are the bridges over the Prinsengracht and the Amstel, or from the quaysides by the Muziektheater.

For more information visit www.amsterdamgaypride.nl.

Fly direct to Amsterdam with Air Malta.