Amsterdam's fetish scene is set for a landmark event as Leather & Fetish Pride Netherlands returns from Thursday, 15 October to Monday, 19 October, celebrating its 30th anniversary. The five-day program is the organisation's most ambitious to date, featuring two major title elections, the debut of a new signature party, and a packed schedule of community events across the city.
This year's edition builds on the momentum of previous years, honouring three decades of community history. The weekend is anchored by four main events, two of which take place at IJland in Amsterdam North, accessible via a free shuttle bus service from the back of Central Station.
The Weekend's Main Events
The festivities are built around four key ticketed events that define the weekend. On Friday night, the community will gather at Akhnaton for the Mister Leather Netherlands 2027 Election. The winner will succeed current titleholder Danny Worm-Soedardjo and serve as an ambassador for the Dutch leather community for the next year, a role that includes representing the community at events and laying a wreath at the Homomonument during the national Remembrance of the Dead.
Later on Friday, the brand-new party Meltdown makes its debut at IJland. Billed as a "four-way collision," it's a collaboration between Kinky Hub, Bear Bash, Damage, and Headrush, designed to bring together the leather, rubber, bear, and pup communities under one roof.
Saturday is dominated by two major events at IJland. The evening begins with the prestigious Mr Rubber Europe 2027 Election, an international contest hosted in Amsterdam for this year's pride. Immediately following the election, the venue transforms for the weekend's main party: Invasion Amsterdam. As the city's largest men-only fetish event, Invasion is known for its industrial atmosphere, huge play area, and strict fetish dress code.
Your Day-by-Day Guide
Beyond the main parties, the city will be alive with dozens of socials, workshops, and sales. Here are some highlights from the extensive program.
Thursday, 15 October
The weekend officially kicks off at Eagle Amsterdam with an opening reception. For those looking to gear up, shops like Black Body, The Bronx, and House of Riegillio are offering discounts of up to 25%. The evening features several bar events, including kick-off drinks at Bears Amsterdam and a throwback 80s & 90s party at The Cuckoo's Nest.
Friday, 16 October
The day builds towards the two big evening events. You can get your boots shined at Bears Amsterdam in the afternoon or head to Prik for the popular Drinks & Games by Dutch Rubbermen, where you can meet the Mr. Rubber Europe candidates. After the Mr. Leather election concludes, the official after-party takes place at Bears Amsterdam, while Eagle hosts its dark and kinky 'Fetish in the Mix' night.
Saturday, 17 October
The busiest day of the festival offers something for everyone. The Dutch Rubbermen host their men-only DRUM Weekend Boat Tour through the canals. At Bears Amsterdam, you can browse for second-hand gear at the Fetish Flea Market. Over at Club Church, the puppy play community will crown the next Mr/Ms/Mx Puppy Netherlands at the Dutch Puppy Contest. For those interested in learning a new skill, UNTITLED offers a rubber-making workshop, and Mediamatic hosts a Kinky Masterclass 21: Body Modification.
Sunday, 18 October
As the weekend winds down, the Dutch Rubbermen host a 'NO GOODBYES Brunch' at Prik. In the afternoon, Dirty Dicks hosts its skin-tight Spandex Party, while various fetish communities come together for the Fetish Socials United event at Bears Amsterdam to close out the celebrations.
Practical Information
- Transport: A free shuttle bus to the events at IJland (Meltdown, Mr Rubber EU, Invasion) runs from the Buiksloterweg bus stop on the north side of the IJ. Take the free 24/7 ferry from behind Central Station to get there.
- Tickets: A full weekend pass offers savings of up to 75% compared to individual tickets. All options are available at the official Leather & Fetish Pride Netherlands website.
- Full Programme: For a complete list of all 26 official events, including times, locations, and entry fees, see the official events directory.
