Amsterdam Gay and Lesbian Parade

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History

Amsterdam is arguably the birthplace of LGBTQI+ rights, where homosexuality was decriminalized in 1811 and the first gay bar appeared in 1927. One of the world's first gay rights organizations, the COC, was founded in Amsterdam in 1946 (Cultuur en OntspanningscentrumIn the early days, this name was used to "hide" the true purpose of the organization - to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights; it set up support groups to serve the LGBTQ+ community at the local level throughout the Netherlands. LGBTQ+ community.

In memory of the many gay and lesbian victims of World War II, Amsterdam unveiled its first-ever gay and lesbian memorial in 1987. Later, in 1998, Amsterdam became the first city outside North America to host a gay and lesbian games. As the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001, the mayor of Amsterdam officiated at the world's first legal gay and lesbian wedding.

The Amsterdam Gay and Lesbian March began in 1996, and unlike other marches elsewhere, the Amsterdam Gay and Lesbian March did not take to the streets to fight for rights or express aspirations; it began as an event to celebrate LGBTQ people and unite the community. Known for its vibrant culture, stunning scenery and acceptance of people of all backgrounds, the Amsterdam Gay and Lesbian Parade, held in late July/early August each year, is one of the most famous parade celebrations in the world. It continues to grow, including the weekly celebrations and the best-known Canal Parade, which attracts nearly half a million visitors each year and is one of the largest annual events held in the city.

City Profile

Reguliersdwarsstraat is the gay district of Amsterdam, with most of the gay bars and nightclubs in this area, which is also located in the center of Amsterdam.

Processions

The highlight of the procession was the Canal Parade - a parade of participants from different backgrounds dressed in colorful costumes on boats. The parade wound through several canals, including Westerdok, Prinsengracht, Amstel, Zwanenburgwal, Oudeschans and Oosterdok.
In 2014, several ships took part in the parade for the first time: a Jewish ship, a Moroccan ship and an American ship - showing that the Amsterdam parade welcomes all kinds of groups.

In addition to the parade itself, there are many street parties throughout the city. The annual outdoor Milkshake Music Festival is suitable for everyone, a 2-day outdoor party where you can fully experience the inclusive nature of Amsterdam and have a good time; for gay men, there is the famous Rapido party, the largest gay party in Amsterdam. Don't miss it. (For example, on King's Day at the end of April every year, the Rapido party will start in the afternoon of the day of worship and last until late at night, don't look at the Dutch people who love to have fun, but they still go to work after the first day of worship)