Pride parades and LGBTQIA+ events: where to celebrate in 2025

Your go-to guide to parades, parties, and community events that uplift queer voices

  • TicketSwap Team
  • Di., 29. Juli
  • Pride

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This article was written and curated by the TicketSwap team, translated for you with AI.

There’s something special about celebrating Pride all summer long, not just in June. From huge city parades to local festivals, Pride is a brilliant way to connect with community, honour history, and simply have a good time.

Whether you’re planning your first parade or you’re a seasoned Pride-goer, here’s your guide to some of the most exciting LGBTQIA+ events happening across the globe in 2025.

Why Pride matters

Pride isn’t just a party (though it’s definitely a lot of fun). It’s a time to recognise the LGBTQIA+ community’s journey towards equality and visibility. The very first marches were acts of protest and solidarity after the Stonewall Riots in 1969. Today, Pride events celebrate love, self-expression and the right to be yourself without fear.

While every country and city has its own story, the message stays the same: everyone deserves to feel safe, valued and proud.

Sziget Pride

Highlights from around the world

Here are some of the most iconic Pride parades and queer festivals to add to your 2025 calendar. Just remember – dates and details can change, so always check official event sites before you travel.

Pride Amsterdam (26 July – 3 August 2025)

Pride Amsterdam

Amsterdam Pride is like the city’s ultimate summer house party, except everyone’s invited. All week, you’ll find buzzing street parties, art exhibitions and films popping up across town.

The Canal Parade on 2 August steals the show. Picture it: brilliantly decorated boats drifting along the canals while thousands cheer from the banks.

The 2025 theme, LOVE, celebrates togetherness in every shape and shade. And beyond the festivities, Amsterdam Pride keeps activism front and centre, spotlighting trans rights and global LGBTQIA+ voices.

Rotterdam Pride (19 – 28 September 2025)

Rotterdam Pride is proof that the party doesn’t stop when summer ends. Over ten days, the city comes alive with parades, art installations and storytelling sessions.

The main festival on 27 September is all about grassroots pride, bringing together drag kings, performers and community groups. It’s inclusive, creative and just the right mix of laid-back and electric.

Queer Fest Rotterdam (September 2025)

Running alongside Rotterdam Pride, Queer Fest is the cool little sibling who hosts the best house parties. Local artists and collectives take over cafes, galleries, and dancefloors, turning the city into a DIY queer wonderland.

Vogue balls, protest poetry, late-night cinema – it’s all here. If you’re after something raw, creative, and real, Queer Fest has your name on it.

Celebrate Pride Dutch-style with iconic festivals and queer parties lighting up cities across the Netherlands

BOPS Pride Amsterdam

Fr., 1. Aug., 23:00 • The Other Side, NL

After the parade, keep the celebration going at one of Amsterdam’s iconic gay bars

EuroPride Lisbon (14 – 22 June 2025)

Pride Parade Lisbon

Lisbon is making history this year as the first Portuguese-speaking city to host EuroPride, and it’s set to be huge. Over nine days, the city’s getting dressed up in rainbows with more than 50 events, from workshops and talks to drag shows and rooftop parties.

The big march happens on 21 June and will bring an international crowd ready to celebrate, connect and stand up for inclusion. Whether you’re catching a queer film night in Alfama or dancing under the stars in Bairro Alto, this is one Pride you’ll be talking about for ages.

Belfast Pride (18 – 27 July 2025)

Belfast Pride has grown into something seriously special. It’s got all the big-hitting Pride essentials—huge parade, rainbow flags as far as the eye can see, but with that unmistakable Belfast warmth.

Expect brilliant live music, drag shows, community events, and the kind of atmosphere where everyone chats to everyone. It’s pure heart, pure craic, and a reminder that Pride here is as much about solidarity as celebration.

Belfast Trans Pride Fundraiser 2025

Sa., 9. Aug., 16:30 • Oh Yeah Music Centre, GB

Brighton & Hove Pride (2 – 3 August 2025)

Brighton Pride is a seaside classic – part massive street party, part heartfelt community celebration. The parade winds from Hove Lawns to Preston Park, where the music and performances keep going all weekend.

Whether you’re dancing at Pride in the Park or wandering the Village Party, Brighton’s inclusive spirit makes everyone feel at home.

Pride on The Park 2025 - Brighton Pride

2.–3. Aug. • Preston Park, GB

Manchester Pride (15 – 25 August 2025)

Manchester Pride doesn’t mess about. The parade is a riot of colour and cheers, but it’s only the opening act. After that, the Gay Village turns into a giant playground of live music, cabaret, late-night parties and impromptu street dancing.

If you’ve still got energy (you will), Superbia Weekend delivers a more chilled-out side of Pride – think exhibitions, talks, and space to soak it all in. Manchester does Pride with swagger, soul and a lot of sparkle.

Pride in London (5 July 2025)

London Pride is the grand finale of UK pride season, pulling in over a million people every summer. The parade kicks off at Park Lane and snakes past all the iconic landmarks – Oxford Circus, Trafalgar Square, the lot – before wrapping up at Whitehall.

But it’s not just the march that makes London special. The whole city gets involved, with drag brunches, film festivals and pop-ups happening in every corner. Expect big names on stage and plenty of moments that’ll give you goosebumps.

Pride on The Park 2025

From London to Brighton, these UK Pride events bring music, unity, and unapologetic queer joy beyond the parade

  • Mighty Hoopla (June 1–2) – Pop-fueled queer festival bursting with color and camp in London.

Looking for post-parade pints or drag with a twist? London’s gay bars deliver

Cologne Pride (4 – 7 July 2025)

Cologne Pride has earned a reputation for blending big energy with a serious message. The weekend is packed with debates, solidarity marches and street fairs, all topped off by Germany’s largest Pride parade on Saturday.

Expect pumping techno, bold banners and a whole lot of love. It’s a brilliant mix of spectacle and substance.

Sexy Pride World - Official Cologne Pride Main Party

4.–7. Juli • Bootshaus, DE

Berlin Christopher Street Day (26 July 2025)

Berlin’s CSD is where celebration meets activism in the best possible way. Thousands take to the streets to honour the Stonewall legacy and push for progress, ending with a massive street festival by the Brandenburg Gate.

During the weekend, Berlin’s clubs throw legendary Pride parties – think techno marathons and queer performances till sunrise. The 2025 edition is shining a light on intersectional activism and support for LGBTQIA+ refugees, proving Pride here is as powerful as it is joyful.

From Berlin to Munich, Germany’s Pride events are where rave culture meets queer liberation

Looking for where the party moves after the march? Berlin’s bar scene delivers

Stockholm Pride (28 July – 3 August 2025)

Stockholm Pride is a thoughtful blend of celebration and activism. Pride House is the spot for talks and panels, while Pride Park hosts live shows and parties.

The parade is a colourful statement that winds through the city centre, championing trans and non-binary visibility. It’s one of the most progressive Pride events in Scandinavia – and one of the most welcoming.

Pride Stockholm

San Francisco Pride (28 – 29 June 2025)

San Francisco is where Pride history was made, and the spirit’s still as strong as ever. The 2025 theme – Queer Joy is Resistance – says it all.

You’ll find over 20 community stages, a huge civic centre party and a parade that turns the city into a living, breathing celebration of progress. From the Castro to Market Street, it’s pure Pride magic.

NYC Pride (22 – 29 June 2025)

cologne pride festival

NYC Pride is basically the heartbeat of the global Pride movement. From PrideFest and Youth Pride to the legendary march itself, the city comes alive in a way you have to see to believe.

It’s not just historic, it’s where the culture keeps evolving. Expect millions of people, unforgettable performances and more rainbow flags than you can count.

Montreal Pride (7 – 17 August 2025)

Montreal Pride is like a summer festival and a civil rights rally rolled into one. Over 11 days, the city hosts parades, panels, and open-air concerts that bring everyone together.

By day, you can catch thoughtful discussions; by night, you’ll find raves lighting up the Gay Village. It’s bilingual, diverse and unforgettable.

Toronto Pride (20 – 29 June 2025)

Toronto Pride is a full-on festival that celebrates every part of the LGBTQIA+ community. The Trans March, Dyke March and main parade each bring their own energy, while Pride picnics and family events keep things welcoming for everyone.

Whether you’re after a big street party or something a little more low-key, Toronto’s got you covered.

Copenhagen Pride (9 – 17 August 2025)

Copenhagen Pride turns City Hall Square into a vibrant hub of debates, concerts and drag king shows. The parade itself is a joyful display of solidarity, where every float has something to say.

It’s a celebration that doesn’t shy away from pushing for change, making Copenhagen one of Europe’s most inspiring Pride destinations.

Oslo Pride (20 – 29 June 2025)

Oslo Pride is all about balance – mixing big public celebrations with thoughtful community programming. Pride House hosts daily talks and panels, while Pride Park is the place for gigs and performances.

The parade through the city centre feels like a collective moment of pride and protest. It’s welcoming, safe and genuinely uplifting.

Athens Pride (7 June 2025)

Athens Pride transforms Syntagma Square into a bold celebration of equality and visibility. Thousands turn out to march past ancient landmarks, blending history with the energy of modern Pride.

Art, music and powerful speeches fill the city centre, proving that Pride here is as proud as it is determined.

While in Greece you can't miss Queer Ranch Festival 2025!

Queer Ranch Festival

27.–31. Mai • Various, GR

Taipei Pride (25 October 2025)

Taipei Pride is Asia’s biggest Pride celebration and a trailblazer in LGBTQIA+ rights. The parade winds through the city with dazzling floats and crowds ready to celebrate progress.

Panels and talks run alongside the festivities, making Taipei a brilliant place to cap off your Pride season.

Mexico City Pride (28 June 2025)

Mexico City Pride is a force to be reckoned with. Starting at the Angel of Independence and ending at the Zócalo, the parade is a colourful celebration with a strong message of equality.

Live performances and activism go hand in hand, shining a light on indigenous and LGBTQIA+ rights across the region.

São Paulo Pride (8 June 2025)

São Paulo doesn’t do things by halves – this is one of the biggest Pride parades on Earth. Picture three million people taking over Avenida Paulista with music, dancing and a serious call for equality.

All week long, clubs and cultural centres keep the energy going. If you want your Pride loud and legendary, São Paulo’s got you sorted.

Budapest Pride (28 June 2025)

Budapest Pride is celebrating its 30th edition with a defiant march through the heart of the city. Despite challenges, the festival keeps growing stronger, bringing together forums, parties and cultural events.

It’s a powerful statement that Pride belongs everywhere.

Though it’s not explicitly a queer festival, Sziget’s known as the Island of Freedom for a reason. Known for its wide-ranging lineup that spans genres and cultures, Sziget also features a dedicated LGBTQ+ venue, called Magic Mirror, which is more than worth your time.

Sziget Festival 2025

4.–12. Aug. • Sziget Festival Official, HU

Dublin Pride (28 June 2025)

Dublin Pride brings that famous Irish warmth to the streets. The parade winds through the city centre, surrounded by music, dancing and plenty of cheering.

There’s something for everyone, from family-friendly zones to late-night gigs. Come for the craic, stay for the community spirit.

Atlantic Pride – A Coruña, Spain (6 – 13 July 2025)

Atlantic Pride is basically your dream beach holiday – if your holiday also happened to be a week-long queer celebration with a soundtrack of live gigs and ocean breezes.

This Galician gem keeps things relaxed and friendly. One minute you’re at a literature talk, the next you’re dancing barefoot in the sand as the sun sets. If you’re after chilled vibes and salty air, pack your shades and head north.

Barcelona Pride (28 June – 19 July 2025)

Barcelona Pride

Barcelona doesn’t just do Pride, it throws an entire month-long fiesta by the Mediterranean. Picture it: golden beaches by day, street concerts by night, and enough glitter to coat the Sagrada Família twice over.

The grand finale parade rolls through the city in a technicolour wave of music, dancing and unapologetic joy. If your ideal Pride involves sipping sangria between dance floors and catching a drag show under the stars, Barcelona’s ready to spoil you rotten.

Explore Barcelona’s legendary LGBTQIA+ nightlife, one bar at a time

Madrid Pride (26 June – 6 July 2025)

Madrid Pride – aka MADO – is one of the biggest Pride celebrations on the planet. Over two million people flood the streets, dancing, marching and soaking up the Spanish sunshine.

Chueca is the heart of it all, with drag shows in every square and DJs playing till the early hours. If you like your Pride big, bold, and a little bit wild, Madrid’s calling your name.

Antwerp Pride (6 – 10 August 2025)

Antwerp Pride is like the city inviting you in for a long weekend of art, activism and seriously good parties. The parade feels like one big love letter to inclusivity, winding through cobbled streets lined with cheering crowds.

Stick around for the Love United Festival, where the beats keep going till late, and don’t miss the debates and exhibitions that give the celebration extra meaning. Warm, welcoming and just rebellious enough, Antwerp knows how to do it right.

March, dance, and connect - Belgium’s Pride events are calling.

When in Brussels don't forget to go to LA DEMENCE: 36th Anniversary Weekend

Helsinki Pride (23 – 29 June 2025)

Helsinki Pride has that cool Nordic energy – thoughtful, creative, and all about community. During the day, you’ll find open-air gigs, human rights discussions and rainbow flags fluttering over the harbour.

Come parade time, the whole city feels electric. It’s bright, progressive and guaranteed to leave you grinning. If you fancy starting your summer of Pride somewhere fresh and inspiring, Helsinki’s waiting with open arms.

Zurich Pride (20 – 21 June 2025)

Zurich Pride packs a serious punch into two brilliant days. The city centre transforms into a rainbow-splashed hub where rights advocacy meets non-stop celebration.

The parade winds through the streets with banners flying and beats pumping, while the festival grounds fill up with live performances, community stalls and spaces to learn, connect and just be yourself. It’s got all the Swiss efficiency you’d expect but with a lot more glitter.

Pride: Big moments, Big history

Pride

Curious about where Pride began, which festivals draw the biggest crowds, and why June is such a huge deal for the LGBTQIA+ community? Here’s a quick tour through the milestones, must-know facts and standout celebrations that have shaped Pride into the global movement it is today.

What country has the biggest Pride festival?

If you’re after sheer scale, the United States takes the crown. New York City hosts the biggest Pride march on the planet – millions of people pour into Manhattan every year for a week of parades, concerts and celebrations that take over the whole city. It’s a proper spectacle.

Of course, how big a Pride gets often depends on how supportive the country is - laws, politics and public attitudes all play a part in whether a festival can grow into something massive and welcoming.

Across the pond in Europe, Madrid Pride (or Orgullo) is no small affair either, pulling in over two million revellers who come for the sunshine, street parties and unstoppable energy.

What is the most famous Pride festival?

That title probably goes to NYC Pride. It’s not just huge, it’s where the modern movement was born, marking the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. San Francisco Pride is right up there too, known for its rich history and legendary celebrations.

In Europe, Amsterdam Pride is iconic thanks to its one-of-a-kind canal parade (imagine boats decked out in rainbows drifting past thousands of cheering people). London and Berlin Pride are also big names on the global Pride map.

These festivals aren’t just parties. They’re powerful reminders of how far LGBTQIA+ rights have come, and how much further there is to go.

What do we actually celebrate during Pride Month?

June is all about honouring the LGBTQIA+ community’s history and the fight for equality. Pride Month marks the Stonewall Riots – a moment that sparked a global push for change.

All over the world, you’ll find parades, talks, workshops and street festivals shining a light on visibility, celebrating love in all its forms, and standing up against discrimination. It’s a mix of joy, remembrance and activism that shows exactly why Pride still matters.

What’s special about 28 June?

28 June is a date with serious significance – it’s the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in 1969, when LGBTQIA+ people in New York City rose up against police raids and said “enough.” That night kickstarted the modern Pride movement and inspired marches around the world.

Every year, events on this day pay tribute to the courage and resilience of those who came before.

Is February Pride Month too?

Not quite – February isn’t Pride Month globally. But in the UK, February is LGBTQ+ History Month, which is all about learning, sharing stories and highlighting the achievements (and challenges) of LGBTQ+ people throughout history.

So why did Pride start in the first place?

Pride began as a fightback against discrimination, violence and being told to hide who you are. The Stonewall Riots were the spark, but the movement has always been about standing up to injustice and demanding equality.

Today, Pride is a celebration of identity, a protest for rights, and a call to keep pushing for a world where everyone can live openly and safely. Whether you’re marching, dancing, learning or simply showing up, you’re part of that story.

FAQs about Pride

Ready to dive into the practical stuff? Here are some quick answers to common Pride questions:

How can I celebrate Pride if I’m not in a big city?

You’ve got options. Stream virtual events, join local community gatherings, support queer creators, or host your own get-together with friends.

Is Pride only for LGBTQIA+ people?

Not at all. Allies play a big role in making Pride inclusive and welcoming for everyone. If you’re showing up with respect and support, you’re exactly where you should be.

Are Pride events family-friendly?

Many are! You’ll often find family zones, kid-friendly performances and educational activities. Just check the event website to see what’s planned.

How do I stay safe at Pride?

Stick with your friends, stay hydrated, and don’t forget sunscreen. Take a moment to check where the safe spaces and support tents are, just in case you need them. And if you see something that doesn’t feel right, trust your gut and look out for each other.

Where can I find up-to-date info on Pride parades?

Always check the official websites and social media channels for each Pride event – dates, locations and line-ups can change.

How do I volunteer at Pride?

Most events rely on volunteers to make the magic happen. From stewarding parades to helping at info stands, there’s loads you can do. Head to the official Pride website for sign-up details.

What should I pack for a Pride parade?

Comfy shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a portable charger will go a long way. And if you fancy it, bring a flag or sign that makes you feel proud.

Are Pride events accessible for disabled people?

Many Prides have accessibility measures like step-free viewing areas, BSL interpreters and quiet spaces. Check each event’s website for details – accessibility info is usually listed clearly.

How do I support Pride if I can’t attend?

You can still donate to LGBTQIA+ organisations, share educational resources or uplift queer voices on social media. Every bit of support counts.

What are some do’s and don’ts for allies?

Do listen, learn and amplify LGBTQIA+ voices. Don’t treat Pride as a costume party or take up space that should centre the community. Most importantly, just be respectful – Pride is all about creating space for LGBTQIA+ communities to shine.

Celebrate Pride with heart

Pride is all about showing up as you are and standing tall while you do it. Whether you’re dancing in the streets, learning something new, or cheering people on from home, it all counts.

So go on: find your next festival, march or late-night afterparty with TicketSwap. Celebrate. Support. Show up. Be proud.


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