Rotterdam is set to host its annual Pride Week from September 17 to 27, 2026, with organizers releasing the first details of the city-wide celebration. The event will once again be guided by the artistic vision of 'Queertopia', focusing on a future where queer creativity and freedom are integral to the city's fabric.
Festival Lineup Takes Shape
The centerpiece of the week, the free-to-attend Rotterdam Pride Festival, will take place on Saturday, September 26, at Willemsplein. The initial lineup features a mix of music and performance, including:
- Berget Lewis
- JEA
- Mandy McCandy
- WINE.
- Gavin Reijnders
- Mika Akela
The festival will be hosted by Faye Ferry and Lotte van Eijk. Returning this year are the popular drag program, curated by House of Holographic Hoes, and the PrideCast with Sharvin Ramjan. More artists and program details for the festival are expected in the coming months.
The 'Queertopia' Vision Continues
Following its introduction in a previous edition, 'Queertopia' is now established as the permanent artistic direction for Rotterdam Pride. The organization describes it as a vision for the future where queer creativity, freedom, and inclusivity are a self-evident part of Rotterdam, moving beyond a temporary theme to a long-term commitment.
More Than a Single Day
While the festival is a major draw, Pride Week encompasses ten days of events across the city. The official kick-off is scheduled for September 17 with the launch of the Qtopia Magazine. Several community-organized events have also been confirmed, including the PEACH CLUB – Queer Indie Party, Rainbow Garden Rotterdam, Pride in de Praktijk, and Proud Supporters, highlighting the grassroots nature of the celebration.
Pride March Remains Central
On September 26, ahead of the festival, the annual Pride March will proceed through the city. Adopting the international motto 'Pride is still a protest', the march serves as the activist core of the event, demanding equality, safety, and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. The route will conclude at Willemsplein, leading into the start of the festival.
Community Involvement
Organizers are encouraging community groups, cultural institutions, and individuals to contribute to the 'Queertopia' vision by hosting their own events during Pride Week. A portal for submitting ideas and registering events is available on the official Rotterdam Pride website.
