Big party on the Zeedijk in Amsterdam today, because Hartjesdag is celebrated there every year on the third Monday of August. Women dress like men and vice versa. It is a special edition, because exactly 25 years ago the party was revived.
Hartjesdag probably dates back to the Middle Ages. It was banned by the Germans during the war, but has been celebrated again for 25 years. That’s why especially this year an exhibition about the history of the party, which is more than just a dress-up party.
“These kinds of things are now also very important. You see more and more violence and aggression against LGBTIQ + people and people in drag,” says Guido Leguit, manager of café ‘t Mandje. “It might be a little crazy after 25 years, but it seems to be getting more and more important.”
After a brunch at long tables, the participants paraded over the Zeedijk, as they do every year. The most beautiful outfits will be rewarded tonight with a real prize and afterwards there will be a bit of partying. “I’ll go further to the pub in a bit,” says a visitor. “Get a picket anussie.”
Earlier this week we were preparing for this extra festive edition of Hartjesdag and we dive into history of the party. That report can be seen here: