De Parade Amsterdam | travelling summer theatre festival in the Netherlands

About

De Parade is one of the most unique summer festivals in the Netherlands, combining theatre, music, dance, food and culture in a lively open air setting. Every year, the travelling festival visits several major Dutch cities including Rotterdam, Den Haag, Utrecht and Amsterdam, transforming parks into colorful festival grounds filled with circus tents, terraces and live entertainment. Known for its nostalgic carnival atmosphere, De Parade offers visitors a mix of culture and nightlife unlike any other festival in the Netherlands. The festival grounds are decorated with classic fairground elements, glowing lights and vintage carousel rides, creating a magical atmosphere during warm summer evenings. Each year, around 80 theatre, dance, mime and music performances are presented in intimate theatre tents spread across the festival site. One of the things that makes De Parade so special is that many of the performances are created exclusively for the festival and cannot be seen anywhere else. This gives visitors the chance to discover new artists, experimental productions and unique live performances in an accessible way. The shows usually last around 30 minutes, making it easy to watch multiple performances in one evening. Visitors can combine theatre with drinks, street food and live music while exploring the different tents and stages throughout the night. During the daytime, the festival also hosts the KinderParade, a family friendly program featuring children’s theatre, interactive activities and performances designed for younger visitors. This makes De Parade a popular summer outing for both families and adults looking for culture and entertainment. Besides theatre and performances, De Parade is also loved for its relaxed outdoor terraces, food stands and lively social atmosphere. Guests can enjoy cocktails, local food and music while sitting among artists, locals and international visitors. In Amsterdam, De Parade traditionally takes place in the beautiful Martin Luther Kingpark, where the festival attracts thousands of visitors every summer. For travelers looking to experience Dutch culture, live performances and one of the most creative summer festivals in the Netherlands, De Parade is an unforgettable event to visit. Check the dates online on their website.