Canal Parade Awards Honour 'The Kissing Couple' and 'Book Boat' for Creativity and Impact

Following the vibrant procession through Amsterdam's canals, the standout participants of the annual Canal Parade have been recognized for their contributions to this year's event. A jury has awarded prizes across four categories, celebrating the most creative, impactful, and well-executed boats that embodied the theme of 'Unity'.

The task of judging the eighty participating boats fell to a panel led by media personality Cornald Maas. He was joined by former police officer and television presenter Ellie Lust, former State Secretary for Culture and Media Gunay Uslu, actor Raymi Sambo, and event expert Frank van Leeuwen.

The awards will be officially presented during the closing events of Pride Amsterdam, offering a final moment to celebrate the messages of protest, community, and joy that define the parade each year.

Award Winners by Category

Best Visualisation of 'Unity'

Taking the top prize for interpreting the theme was 'The Kissing Couple', offering a modern, inclusive take on a classic Dutch symbol. They were followed by the vibrant Tutu Crew and the conceptually-driven Stichting 3 Layers.

Winner: Boot 46, The Kissing Couple
Second Place: Boot 71, Tutu Crew
Third Place: Boot 64, Stichting 3 Layers

Best Statement/Campaign

In a year marked by debates over censorship, the 'Boekenboot' (Book Boat) was awarded first place for its powerful statement on the importance of queer literature. The runners-up were the Regenboog Groep, known for their social support work, and the creatively themed YARRR Party.

Winner: Boot 32, Boekenboot
Second Place: Boot 39, Regenboog Groep
Third Place: Boot 19, YARRR Party

Best Design/Execution

Recognized for its outstanding aesthetic and construction, the 'We are Family' boat claimed the top spot in this category. The creative teams behind Tess van Zwoll / Outloud and the joint GGD / OLVG / UMC boat also received honours for their design.

Winner: Boot 34, We are Family
Second Place: Boot 47, Tess van Zwoll / Outloud
Third Place: Boot 69, GGD / OLVG / UMC

Best Corporate Statement

In the corporate category, telecom company KPN was recognized for having the best statement. The collaborative entry from TransPride and RABO Bank took second place, with ARBO placing third.