AMSTERDAM, Hundreds of thousands of people gathered along Amsterdam’s historic canals on Saturday for the flagship WorldPride 2026 Canal Parade, combining celebration with a renewed call for equality and inclusion following last week’s deadly attack at Berlin Pride.
Decorated boats adorned with rainbow flags, banners, and colorful balloons sailed through the city’s canals as spectators in vibrant outfits cheered from bridges and waterfronts during one of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ celebrations.
This year’s event holds special significance as Amsterdam marks 25 years since becoming the first city in the world to host legally recognized same-sex marriages.
The Netherlands is hosting WorldPride 2026 under the theme “UNITY,” with a two-week program of cultural, social, and advocacy events taking place across the country.
Security was strengthened following the deadly attack at Berlin Pride last week, in which one person was killed and more than 30 others were injured after a van drove into a crowd.
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Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema had announced additional security measures ahead of the parade, although authorities did not disclose specific operational details.
Police officers patrolled the event on bicycles, boats, and vehicles to help ensure public safety throughout the celebrations.
Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, the country’s first openly gay prime minister, also attended the event.
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Many attendees said the Berlin attack had strengthened their determination to participate rather than discourage them.
American resident Tré Shawn Griffin, who has lived in the Netherlands for several years, said the attack reinforced the importance of visibility.
“People try to intimidate you and make you hide. That only makes us come out louder,” he said.
Participant Julianne van der Heide said the tragedy demonstrated why Pride events remain essential.
“The attack only proves how important Pride still is today,” she said
Earlier this week, thousands gathered at Amsterdam’s Homomonument to honor the victims of the Berlin attack, laying flowers at the memorial dedicated to those persecuted for their sexual orientation.
Organizers emphasized that despite heightened security, the focus of WorldPride remains on inclusion, equality, and solidarity.
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A spokesperson for Amsterdam Pride said terrorism aims to spread fear, but the LGBTQ+ community would continue to stand together and celebrate diversity.
