Zwolle to Host National LGBTQ+ Event for Third Time
Zwolle will be the backdrop for Roze Zaterdag (Pink Saturday) in 2028, bringing the national event back to the Overijssel capital for the third time. The city follows Arnhem, which is set to host the 2027 edition.
The successful bid was championed by artist and former 'night mayor' Jeroen van Doornik, who expressed his relief and joy at the decision. "I am so incredibly happy that we succeeded," he said shortly after the selection was made public.
A Focus on Broader Dialogue
Van Doornik has been clear that the vision for Zwolle's event is distinct from a typical Pride parade, stressing the unique identity of Roze Zaterdag as a celebration of diversity in its widest sense.
"Pride is born from protest against intolerance towards the gay community," van Doornik explained, differentiating the two events. "Roze Zaterdag is not a specifically gay party."
He elaborated that the event aims to include everyone, touching on themes beyond sexuality and gender identity. "It's also about people who might look different, or about religion. It is a celebration for everyone, with the goal of starting conversations with each other."
A Long-Awaited Return
This marks a successful second attempt for the local organizing team. A previous bid to host was accepted for 2020, but the event was ultimately cancelled due to the pandemic. The renewed effort received formal backing from the Zwolle city council, which allocated €10,000 to support the candidacy, following a motion from the Stadspartij.
Zwolle has a history with the event, having previously hosted Roze Zaterdag in 1990 and 2006. Van Doornik affirmed the ongoing need for such a gathering, stating, "It is still very necessary to celebrate Roze Zaterdag. We are going to make it a fantastic event."
Looking Ahead
While an exact date in 2028 has not yet been finalized, the organizational work is set to begin. The Zwolle team plans to attend the 2027 event in Arnhem, where they will symbolically receive the "roze sleutel" (pink key) in a traditional handover ceremony, officially marking the start of their tenure as the next host city.
