Worldwide Rainbow Revelry: Your Guide to Upcoming Global Pride Festivities

There's still plenty of Pride in 2023

As we bid farewell to Pride Month and usher in the second half of the year, it's important, more than ever, to keep the fervor of Pride alive. Following three years of pandemic-imposed restrictions, a record-breaking surge of globe-trotters are resuming their international explorations, painting the world in radiant rainbows of love and inclusivity. To help facilitate your worldwide festivities, Out Traveler is proud to present a curated selection of vibrant Pride events spanning from this month to year's end. This cornucopia of culture and unity promises to keep the spirit of Pride ablaze all year round.

Whether you're a seasoned Pride-goer or a first-time participant, the itinerary below will equip you with all the essential information, from event dates to unique cultural experiences you can expect at each festival. So, grab your passport, pack your rainbow flag, and get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey of love and unity across the world.

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July

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Christopher Street Day Berlin Pride, Germany (July 22)

As one of the world's most significant events advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, this celebratory protest regularly draws between half to one million participants. Engulfed in an electrifying blend of music, revelry, and impassioned spirit, Berlin Pride asserts the powerful message of acceptance and equality. This year the organizers strive to amplify this message even more, working diligently to orchestrate a larger demonstration and an impactful closing event.

Bern Pride, Switzerland (July 26-29)

After a six-year hiatus, Bern Pride is set to return later this month, and bring the city's historic streets to life with vibrant parades, spirited parties, and enriching cultural experiences. Commemorate the journey of the LGBTQ+ community towards equality and share your unique stories during this monumental gathering in Switzerland's capital. The rainbow festivities officially begin on July 26, as Bern hosts the EuroGames, Europe's largest queer sporting event. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a recreational runner, take pride in your stride at the PrideRun - a 5K/10K taking place on July 28. The crowning jewel of this colorful week is the much-anticipated Pride parade on July 29. Immerse yourself in the queer and colorful spirit of Bern during this unforgettable celebration.

August

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Amsterdam Gay Pride, Netherlands (August 4-6)

Famous for its unique Canal Parade, Amsterdam Gay Pride transforms its waterways into a floating extravaganza of color and celebration. A blend of festive boat parties, city-wide street celebrations, and cultural events makes this one of Europe's most dynamic Pride events.

Brighton & Hove Pride, England (August 4-7)

Brighton & Hove Pride stands as one of the largest Pride events in the UK, uniting over 160,000 people every August in a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. This multi-day spectacular features more than 170 artists gracing 12 diverse stages and areas of entertainment. The main event, 'Fabuloso,' is not merely a grand celebration but also a crucial fundraiser for the Brighton Rainbow Fund. The fund, supported by Fabuloso, sustains local LGBTQ+ community groups throughout the year, making Brighton & Hove Pride more than a party—it's a beacon of support for the LGBTQ+ community, shining bright all year round.

Vancouver Pride, Canada (August 6)

Vancouver's iconic Pride Weekend is an unforgettable extravaganza, drawing a crowd of over 100,000 attendees! This vibrant celebration unites more than 100 diverse local community groups, nonprofit organizations, and businesses, proudly demonstrating their unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ communities. The Parade on August 6 promises an inclusive and dynamic spectacle featuring three dedicated accessible viewing zones, a dozen charismatic hosts, and an exclusive VIP viewing area that offers an unparalleled experience.

Prague Pride, Czech Republic (August 7-13)

Now in its 13th year, Prague Pride stands as a cherished annual tradition since its inception in 2011. This grand celebration of diversity and acceptance unfolds over a week, starting on August 7 and culminating on August 13, with the highly anticipated Pride Parade taking place on the 12th. Spectators will revel in a vibrant procession threading through the enchanting streets of Prague on a 3-kilometer journey, concluding in the picturesque Letna Park.

Reykjavik Pride, Iceland (August 8-13)

Venture north to the land of fire and ice for Reykjavik Pride, an extraordinary week-long celebration that's as unique as its picturesque setting. Known locally as Hinsegin Dagar ('Queer Days'), this vibrant Festival annually attracts nearly a third of Iceland's population and a burgeoning number of international tourists. With grand concerts, lively parades, informative events, and a breathtaking firework display, this celebration has established itself as an essential pillar of Reykjavik's cultural calendar. More than just a celebration of LGBTQ+ visibility and courage, Reykjavik Pride is a testament to the Icelandic people's unwavering support for universal human rights, painting the northernmost capital city in vibrant hues of solidarity and pride.

Copenhagen Pride, Denmark (August 12-20)

Set in the heart of Denmark's capital, the Copenhagen Pride festivities are centered around City Hall Square, where the LGBTQ+ community comes together in August for a week filled with awards, parties, concerts, and film screenings. The Festival's cornerstone is its Pride Parade on August 19, starting from Frederiksberg City Hall, a joyous celebration of self-expression and human rights. Copenhagen Drag Night on August 18 is another highlight, promising an unforgettable evening of dazzling performances.

Capital Pride Festival, Ottawa, Canada (August 19-27)

Embrace the energy of Canada's vibrant capital as Ottawa hosts its annual Capital Pride Festival. This spirited celebration starts with a bang at The Capital Pride Pageant on Saturday, August 19. The Festival transforms into a jubilant weekend from August 25 to 27, culminating with the jubilant Pride Parade on the 27th

Manchester Pride, England (August 25-28)

Manchester Pride's four-day celebration combines passion with purpose, championing inclusivity through initiatives such as the Manchester Pride Conference and the All Equals Charter. The Parade, scheduled for Saturday, August 26, promises a vibrant spectacle under this year's theme, "Queerly Beloved." This lively procession is more than just a show; it's a celebration of love and dance, a tribute to the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, and a powerful statement against prejudice. It commemorates a decade of marriage equality in England and Wales while reminding us of the strides yet to be made globally.

September

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Brisbane Pride, Australia (September 1-30)

As Queensland's largest and Australia's third-largest LGBTQ+ event, Brisbane Pride welcomes thousands of attendees annually throughout its month-long celebration. Now proudly marking its 33rd year, this year's Festival will be an energetic mix of events centered around the March and Rally and the most well-attended event, Fair Day, both of which will occur on September 23.

EuroPride, Valletta, Malta (September 7-17)

This September, EuroPride in Valletta, Malta, will welcome the LGBTQ+ communities and allies from near and afar to engage in insightful dialogues and activities combating prejudice, bias, and fear. The event's highlight promises an unparalleled musical celebration headlined by the sensational icon Christina Aguilera. A fervent ally of the LGBTQ+ community, Aguilera's soul-stirring performance on September 16 at The Granaries, Floriana, is set to electrify the crowd, no doubt forming an atmosphere of unity and solidarity.

October

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Johannesburg Pride, South Africa (October 1-28)

October marks the triumphant 33rd year of Pride of Africa, Africa's most enduring Pride event orchestrated by the dedicated team behind Johannesburg Pride. As the torchbearer for the continent's representation, Pride of Africa seamlessly blends community outreach, advocacy, and joyous celebration. Their steadfast objective is to integrate the LGBTQ+ community into the global pursuit of equality. The month-long celebration commences with the Pride of Africa Kick-off event on October 1, followed by the vibrant Queer Met gathering on October 7. The momentum builds with the youth-led Empowerment Summit on October 21, all culminating in the grand Parade on October 28.

Newcastle Pride, NSW Australia (October 6-29)

Established in March 2018, Newcastle Pride is a vibrant, inclusive nonprofit organization operated entirely by volunteers. Noted for its exciting, glamorous, and unapologetically proud celebrations, Newcastle Pride in the Australian state of New South Wales is a testament to the city's rich diversity. In addition to returning fan favorites like Fair Day and the Dance Party, the organizers are thrilled to unveil an array of spectacular new events, each promising to leave attendees in awe. This grand spectacle of unity and celebration culminates in the crowning glory of the Parade on October 29.

Taipei Rainbow Festival, Taiwan (October 28-30)

Asia's biggest Pride event, Taipei Rainbow Festival, magnetically pulls vast audiences year after year, standing as a vibrant beacon of progressiveness, owing to Taiwan's pioneering move to become the first country in the continent to recognize same-sex marriage. The Parade unfurls an exuberant spectacle of vibrant floats, elaborate costumes, and an unparalleled ambiance of inclusivity. The prime objective of the festivity is to spotlight the cultural and creative industries and businesses that have been instrumental in fostering the growth of the LGBTQ+ community. High-profile DJs and performers, key figures in Taiwan's thriving gay scene, will command the main stage, electrifying the audience with their talent. Furthermore, the event will also serve as a vibrant marketplace, showcasing local brands for an enriched shopping experience woven into the fabric of fun and celebration!