Queen Máxima will formally open WorldPride 2026 in Amsterdam's Vondelpark on the afternoon of July 25, according to the Royal House information service (Rijksvoorlichtingsdienst). The official ceremony is scheduled to take place immediately following the annual Pride Walk through the city.
This year, Amsterdam serves as the host city for the international event, a decision that coincides with a significant milestone: the 25th anniversary of the world's first legally recognized same-sex marriage, which was officiated in the Dutch capital in 2001. WorldPride is a global gathering that aims to promote the visibility, human rights, and emancipation of LGBTQ+ people. The event moves to a different international city each time, with Washington D.C. having been the previous host.
Prior to the opening ceremony, the Queen's agenda includes visits to several other Pride-related events. She is expected to attend both the Sport Pride and Youth Pride initiatives. The schedule also includes meetings with representatives from various LGBTQ+ community organisations and visits to informational stands in the park.
