The Municipality of Zaanstad is proud and honored: Pink Saturday 2025, which took place on June 28 in the center of Zaandam, has been nominated for the Event Impact Award 2026. The jury of the National Event Awards selected the event due to its demonstrable social impact and broad collaboration underlying it.
Alderman for Inclusion Gerard Slegers: “This nomination is a wonderful recognition of the tremendous efforts of our many partners, volunteers, social organizations, and involved residents with whom we shaped Pink Saturday together. The Zaan region shone in all colors on June 28. It was a warm and loving event. During Pink Saturday, we all showed that everyone can be themselves and that we stand together for an inclusive, colorful, and safe municipality.”
An event with impact
The Event Impact Award is intended for events that make a difference in society. The jury looks at themes such as meeting, diversity, health, sustainability, and reducing inequality. With over 20,000 visitors, an extensive annual program, and strong involvement from the Zaan community, the jury sees Pink Saturday Zaanstad as an inspiring example of how an event can stimulate social change. Even after Pink Saturday, there is ongoing attention to further improving acceptance of the LGBTIQA+ community.
A year full of visibility and collaboration
Pink Saturday was the festive highlight of a pink year full of activities for and with the city. From meetings for youth and sports workshops to cultural programs and meetings for the business community. The Municipality of Zaanstad worked closely with Stichting De Zaanse Regenboog, Stichting Marketing Zaanstreek, and Discriminatie.nl, supported by numerous partners, volunteers, and residents.
The follow-up
On Friday, February 13, 2026, Zaanstad will present a pitch in Harlingen during the official jury day. Besides Pink Saturday, Popronde and Into the Great Wide Open are nominated. The winner will be announced on March 9, 2026, during the National Congress Events in Zandvoort.