Every Friday night, from May through September, Utrecht joins the ranks of worldwide cities that host an organized skate party through the city streets. The Utrecht Skate Parade brings together hundreds of skaters from the region as they hit the streets to follow special routes organized to explore different highlights of the surrounding city.

The route generally covers approximately 22 kilometers, taking about two hours, with a brief stop halfway through. Because the weekly event is subsidized by the province of Utrecht, the group gets to skate on some of the best roadways and always has police protection, clearing the roads for their passage. Of course, to help keep everyone going and upbeat, a truck with a DJ leads the way, spinning discs and adding to the party atmosphere.

The Utrecht Skate Parade has a website that shows past routes and the upcoming route, as well as weather forecasts. Also included on the site is a forum, photos of past events, and more helpful information. The event is completely free and doesn't even require registration. Just show up to Lucasbolwerk, down by the Stadsschouwburg (the city theater), with skates ready to go. The group gathers at 7:45 p.m. every Friday night, weather permitting. After the skate, there are a number of cafés where you can relax, get a drink and maybe get to know some of your fellow skaters. You might come across a Trippist blogger, too.