July 1st, 1863 marked freedom for the Surinamese from slavery. Nowhere is that more celebrated than in Amsterdam, home to a thriving Surinamese community and host of the Keti Koti Festival. Keti Koti, meaning 'Broken Chains' in Surinamese, is a free celebration of liberty, equality, and solidarity. Keti Koti traditionally is opening with a cozy and colorful parade in traditional clothing called Bigi Spikri. The parade starts at the city council and ends at the Slavery monument place in Oosterpark.