WorldPride, the largest global celebration of LGBTQ+ identity, visibility, and rights. This year’s event, which runs from May 17 to June 8, 2025, coincides with the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride, making it a historic moment for the nation’s capital.
WorldPride has previously taken place in cities like New York, Madrid, and Sydney. Now, D.C. is taking center stage with a full calendar of parades, festivals, concerts, conferences, and public art installations. Organizers expect hundreds of thousands of attendees from across the globe, highlighting the city’s long-standing ties to LGBTQ+ advocacy.
D.C. Celebrates Pride Like Never Before
The spotlight event of the season, the WorldPride Parade, is scheduled for Saturday, June 7, kicking off at 2:00 p.m. at the intersection of 14th and T Streets NW. It will end at Pennsylvania Avenue and 9th Street NW and is expected to run until 8:00 p.m. More than 300 contingents are participating, including local organizations, activists, drag performers, and LGBTQ+ groups from around the world.
To manage the large crowds, road closures have been implemented in the Downtown, Logan Circle, U Street, and Dupont Circle areas. D.C. officials are urging visitors to use public transportation, and Metro has extended train hours for the weekend. Riders can now also pay using tap-enabled credit cards on trains, although buses still require SmarTrip cards.
Music, Activism & Nightlife Collide
WorldPride 2025 is not just about the parade. The celebration features a massive two-day music festival at the RFK Stadium Festival Grounds on June 6 and 7. Headliners include Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, RuPaul, and Paris Hilton. The festival is already seeing near sell-out attendance.
From June 4 to 6, the WorldPride Human Rights Conference will be held at the JW Marriott. The event brings together global activists, politicians, and scholars to discuss issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community—from anti-trans legislation to healthcare equity.
More Events Lighting Up the City
Visitors can also enjoy several ongoing events across the city:
- Street Festival (June 7–8): Taking place on Pennsylvania Avenue, featuring food stalls, artist booths, and live music, including performances by Cynthia Erivo and Doechii.
- Capital Pride Honors (June 5): Held at the National Building Museum, this awards event recognizes influential LGBTQ+ advocates and allies.
- Choral Festival (through June 8): A musical series featuring groups like the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus and the Lavender Light Gospel Choir performing at venues around the city.
- Outdoor Art Exhibits: “Pickets, Protests, and Parades” at Freedom Plaza showcases LGBTQ+ history through powerful visuals chronicling decades of protest and celebration.
Local Pride, Global Impact
WorldPride DC 2025 also features regional celebrations like DC Black Pride, Trans Pride, Latinx Pride, and Asian & Pacific Islander (API) Pride, offering space for intersectional identities within the LGBTQ+ community.
Many local businesses are also taking part. Restaurants such as Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse and Dirty Habit are offering special Pride menus, drag brunches, and themed evenings, with a portion of proceeds going to LGBTQ+ nonprofits.
What You Need to Know About Travel & Safety
With major events drawing large crowds, the D.C. Police Department and emergency services have stepped up efforts to ensure public safety. Streets near major venues will be fenced off, and checkpoints will be in place to manage foot traffic.
Mayor Muriel Bowser has assured residents and tourists that security measures are robust and inclusive. “D.C. has always been a beacon for freedom, equality, and pride,” she said in a recent statement.
Nationals Home Games Align with Pride Week
Coincidentally, the Washington Nationals have several home games at Nationals Park during the final weekend of WorldPride, including a series against the Texas Rangers. Visitors are advised to plan ahead due to increased downtown congestion.