As Amsterdam prepares to host WorldPride from July 25 to August 8, 2026, the Melkweg has outlined its role during the global event. The entire venue will be repurposed for two weeks into Club Chrome, a multidisciplinary festival centered on queer music, art, and activism.
The name 'Club Chrome' is intended to reflect the full spectrum of queer identities and stories. In a statement, the venue explained the concept: "Just as chrome reflects every colour that touches its surface, this theme mirrors the full spectrum of queer identities, stories and expressions... a new star in the Melkweg."
Laura Vogelsang, General Manager of Melkweg, commented on the initiative, stating, “At a time when queer rights are under pressure globally, we choose radical visibility during WorldPride, transforming our venue into Club Chrome.”
First Headliners and Events Confirmed
The festival will kick off on Saturday, July 25, with a performance by Brazilian pop artist and drag queen Pabllo Vittar. As the most-followed drag artist in the world, Vittar will bring her 'Club Vittar' concept to Amsterdam, a party night focused on DJ sets and dance.
On Wednesday, July 29, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Durand Bernarr is scheduled to perform. Known for his vocal range and a sound that blends R&B, funk, and gospel, Bernarr will present his album Bloom, which explores themes of friendship and community.
Art, Drag, and Club Nights
Beyond the main stage, Melkweg Expo will host Beautiful Creatures, a photography exhibition by Peter van der Wal (The Sinful Sun). The series features Polaroid portraits of individuals from queer nightlife scenes in Amsterdam, Berlin, and London. "As a member of Amsterdam’s queer scene myself, this project is not only a glimpse into the community, but also a story told from within,” said van der Wal.
The initial program also includes a large-scale international drag show presented by We Are Them and Drags of Anarchy, with confirmed performers including Alaska Thunderfuck, Brooke Lynn Hytes, and Symone.
The late-night club schedule will be curated by a number of local collectives, including Bixaria, Pon di Pride, Pyxls, Rapido, and Striptopia, ensuring a connection to the city's own queer nightlife infrastructure.
Further programming for Club Chrome is expected to be detailed in the months leading up to WorldPride 2026.
