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WorldPrides through the years: A Global Celebration of LGBTQ+ Unity

A Global Celebration of LGBTQ+ Unity

WorldPride, a remarkable series of international LGBTQ+ pride events, marks a spectacular celebration of diversity and unity across the globe. Coordinated by InterPride, these events are hosted in conjunction with local pride festivals, selected through a bidding process during InterPride's annual general meetings. The festivities typically include opening and closing ceremonies, a pride parade, and an LGBTQ+ human rights conference.

Let's delve into the rich history of WorldPride and explore the upcoming and past events that have left an indelible mark on the LGBTQ+ community.

9. WorldPride Amsterdam, 2026

Source: Tristien

1 August 2026 • Amsterdam

Witness history unfold as Amsterdam transforms into a global stage celebrating love, equality, and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights. WorldPride 2026 promises a vibrant tapestry of cultural events, powerful conferences, and unforgettable festivities, solidifying Amsterdam's position as a beacon of hope and progress for the LGBTQ+ community worldwide.

8. WorldPride Washington, D.C., 2025

Source: Tristien

7 June 2025 • Washington, DC, USA

Originally planned for Kaohsiung, Taiwan, but later moved to Washington, D.C., WorldPride 2025 marks the 50th Anniversary of Pride celebrations in the U.S. Capital. Expect vibrant and innovative events, highlighting Washington, D.C.'s diverse LGBTQ+ community through music, film, and cultural programs.

7. WorldPride Sydney, 2023

Source: Tristien

5 March 2023 • Sydney, NSW, Australia

Sydney, winning the bid for WorldPride 2023, brought the celebration to the Southern Hemisphere. With the theme 'Gather Dream Amplify,' the event spanned 17 days, featuring a Human Rights Conference, Mardi Gras Parade, and performances by artists like Kylie Minogue and Ava Max. The festivities showcased Australia's commitment to LGBTQ+ rights.

7. WorldPride Copenhagen & Malmö, 2021

Source: dbking

21 August 2021 • Copenhagen, Denmark & Malmö, Sweden

For the first time two cities in two countries, Copenhagen and Malmö, jointly hosted WorldPride in 2021, showcasing the diversity of the Øresund Region. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the event combined with EuroGames featured various LGBTQ+ anniversaries and celebrated tolerance and diversity.

6. WorldPride NYC, 2019

Source: wikimedia.org

30 June 2019 • New York City, NY, USA

Stonewall 50 — WorldPride NYC 2019 marked the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots. New York City, with its rich LGBTQ+ history, hosted the largest pride event ever, drawing an estimated five million attendees. The NYC Pride March became the largest parade in the city's history, featuring iconic performances.

Check our comprehensive calendar of all 2024 Pride events and start planning your Pride-filled escapades today!

5. WorldPride Madrid, 2017

Source: DJ SINGH

1 July 2017 • Madrid, Spain

Madrid, celebrating WorldPride in 2017 alongside Europride, created a memorable experience. The event coincided with significant anniversaries in Spain's LGBTQ+ history. A massive demonstration, cultural events, and a vibrant closing ceremony at Puerta de Alcalá added to the festive atmosphere.

4. WorldPride Toronto, 2014

Source: DJ SINGH

29 June 2014 • Toronto, ON, Canada

Toronto, a city known for its diversity, hosted WorldPride in 2014. The event attracted over 12,000 participants in the parade, making it one of the longest in Canadian history. The festivities included performances by Melissa Etheridge and Deborah Cox, an international human rights conference, and a variety of cultural events.

3. WorldPride London, 2012

Source: wheelzwheeler

7 July 2012 • London, England, UK

London, gearing up for the Olympics and Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, welcomed WorldPride in 2012. Despite last-minute challenges, the event featured a Pride Walk and a scaled-back rally. The resilience of the LGBTQ+ community shone through, and this experience spurred positive changes in the organization.

2. WorldPride Jerusalem, 2006

August 2006 • Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem hosted WorldPride in 2006, themed "Love Without Borders." Amidst challenges, including opposition from religious groups and the cancellation of the main parade due to geopolitical tensions, the event showcased resilience. A week of conferences, a film festival, and cultural events illustrated the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community in Jerusalem.

1. WorldPride Rome, 2000

Source: wikimedia.org

8 July 2000 • Rome, Italy

The inaugural WorldPride in 2000 set the stage for this global phenomenon. Despite initial opposition from conservative forces, Rome emerged as the host city. The event featured a march to iconic Roman sites, drawing an impressive 250,000 participants. Conferences, a fashion show, and a concert with performances by Gloria Gaynor and RuPaul contributed to the vibrancy.

As we embark on this journey through WorldPride history, let's continue to celebrate love, diversity, and unity. Explore more about these events and plan your next adventure to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ culture worldwide.

Explore all Prides this year and check out our blog on EuroPrides for more exciting LGBTQ+ celebrations.

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