Canal Parade

Organized on the first Saturday of August, the Canal Parade is a stunning display of the Amsterdam's tolerance and diversity, and a highlight of the city's gay pride celebrations. A parade of 80 fabulously decorated party barges floats along 6 km (3.7 miles) down the Prinsengracht and Amstel River from Westerdok to Oosterdok, drawing over half a million festive spectators. The Amsterdam Police Corps, City of Amsterdam, Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Security and Justice boats all have their own floats in the parade.