July 11, 2026

World Premiere: Queen Opens World Pride

On July 25, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands will officially open this year’s World Pride in Amsterdam’s Vondelpark, according to the Dutch government’s information service (RVD). It is the first time a sitting queen has formally inaugurated one of the world’s major LGBTQ+ events.

The ceremony will follow the traditional Pride Walk, the Dutch capital’s long-standing opening demonstration for Pride. It starts at Dam Square and ends in Vondelpark. During her visit to Amsterdam’s largest park, Máxima will also learn about specific initiatives such as “Sport Pride” and “Youth Pride” and will hold discussions with representatives from the community.

The hosting of World Pride in Amsterdam this year coincides with a historic milestone: 25 years ago the Netherlands became the world’s first country to legalize same-sex marriage (TheColu.mn reported). Germany, by comparison, clung to a ban on gay and lesbian marriage for about 16½ more years.

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Marcy Ellerton
Marcy Ellerton
My name is Marcy Ellerton, and I’ve been telling stories since I could hold a pen. As a queer journalist based in Minneapolis, I cover everything from grassroots activism to the everyday moments that make our community shine. When I’m not chasing a story, you’ll probably find me in a coffee shop, scribbling notes in a well-worn notebook and eavesdropping just enough to catch the next lead.