Started in 2012 as a one-day festival, Milkshake has now become a very popular multi-day festival in the city. For many in the gay community, it is a long-awaited event.

While last year’s festival was rainy, this year there is only room for sunshine. The festival starts on Friday evening and the party continues in Westerpark all weekend. The 11th edition ends today with visitors not believing their luck. “It’s fun with friends,” says one well-dressed visitor. “Get dressed up and wear something other than jeans and a T-shirt.”

The last day is sunny and very colorful again. Because Milkshake is really known for the last. “The energy is fun, everyone is nice,” explains one visitor. “Nobody looks at you strangely, the music is good, so I’m quite happy.” An older lady adds: “I don’t feel out of place even though I’m already a grandmother.”

relaxed

While there’s plenty of partying going on today, some are already looking forward to next week. Four weeks of Pride protests come to an end, but there’s plenty of Pride celebrations to come. The boat parade on Saturday, August 3, and the closing ceremony at Dam Square on Sunday are the final highlights of the Pride period. “If you spread your energy out a little, that’s totally fine,” said one partygoer. “We have to celebrate being here. So let’s do our best.” Another couple agreed. “The explosion still has to come next week on Saturday, and then things will really get going,” they added.