Even though Washington, D.C. may not jump out at you as an LGBTQ+ destination you need to visit (not least because of the current political climate), the upcoming WorldPride is a testament to what the city has to offer the community. Its thriving scene, diverse population, and long history of LGBTQ+ activism and visibility make it one of the most inclusive cities in the US – a legacy that is sure to shine bright throughout WorldPride. There are some understandable apprehensions about visiting the US at the moment, but this year’s celebration and protest comes at a crucial time for the community, and will give LGBTQ+ people much-needed visibility in a city where politicians are sure to be paying attention.
What is WorldPride?
WorldPride is the largest LGBTQ+ event of its kind globally, and seeks to promote inclusion and awareness of the community. Think of it as a supercharged version of a regular Pride event, with parades, discussions and festivals uniting the community with its allies through a celebration of all things queer.
It originally made its debut in Rome in 2000, with host cities since then including the likes of London, New York City, Madrid and, most recently, Sydney. The host is determined by InterPride, the International Association of Pride Coordinators.
Where is it taking place in 2025?
This year, the event will be held in Washington, D.C., which has the highest LGBTQ+ population percentage in the whole of the US. It coincides with the 50th anniversary of Pride in the city and, given the current political climate, serves as the perfect opportunity to inspire positive change while celebrating and protesting right on the metaphorical doorstep of the country’s lawmakers.
What is Washington, D.C. like for LGBTQ+ people?
It’s understandable that many LGBTQ+ people would have reservations about visiting the US at the moment, but it’s important to remember that our community exists everywhere, and Washington, D.C. is no different. Whether it’s Pride season or not, the city has a thriving queer scene and a bustling sense of community that make it an ideal destination to visit year-round.
There are two prominent LGBTQ+ areas (Dupont Circle and Logan Circle), which as a tourist are the best places to stay if you want to be in the thick of everything. The city boasts an array of queer bars, tours and events, among other things, meaning there is no shortage of things to do. Venues such as the Green Lantern, Thurst Lounge and JR’s offer safe spaces and good vibes for all, while restaurants like the VUE Rooftop, Gatsby and Mi Casa are exquisite places to dine. If you’re looking for something queer-owned, then pay Hank’s Oyster Bar and Three Fifty Bakery a visit.
The city is also home to a number of prominent LGBTQ+ organisations, including the Human Rights Campaign and the National LGBTQ+ Task Force, with marches and protests held in Washington, D.C. helping shape the community’s rights in the US over the years.
If you visit, you can expect a safe and accepting environment with plenty of LGBTQ+ things to do. This will undoubtedly be a heightened experience during WorldPride, as tens of thousands of people are expected to be visiting Washington, D.C. to take part in the event – meaning the city will effectively be the hub of all things queer globally!
What events take place during WorldPride?
Unlike local city Prides, which often last for a day or so, WorldPride runs over a period of three weeks and is made up of an array of events. Shakira will kick things off with a showstopping performance at the Opening Ceremony on 31 May, which will also showcase the city’s rich history of LGBTQ+ advocacy and inclusion.
Every WorldPride also includes a Human Rights Conference, which this year will have a focus on the fight for global equality, and features speeches, panels and workshops. This brings voices together from around the world, and will this year make our community visible in a place politicians cannot ignore. “This event is not just a conference—it is a catalyst for change,” says its description. “With each conversation, workshop, and collaboration, we will amplify the voices of those who have been silenced for too long, offering a platform for the stories that must be heard. The purpose of this conference is clear: to ignite action and empower every participant with the tools, the knowledge, and the inspiration to create meaningful change.”
Attendees will also be treated to the WorldPride Music Festival, which runs across three stages over two days. Performers include headliners Jennifer Lopez and Troye Sivan, as well as Marina, RuPaul, Raye and Sofi Tukker.
There’s an array of other entertainment throughout the rest of WorldPride, including exhibits, live performances and even a queer guided tour. That’s not to mention the 17th Street Block Party, parade and closing concerts – the latter of which will see performances from the likes of Doechii and Cynthia Erivo.
All of that is not to mention the International Rally and March, one of the cornerstones of this year’s WorldPride. The march, which takes place on 8 June, will see thousands advocate for LGBTQ+ equality globally before culminating in a celebration at the WorldPride Street Festival. This year’s theme for WorldPride is ‘The Fabric of Freedom’, which will be at the core of this demonstration.
You can find a full event guide for WorldPride here.
What other things can I do in Washington, D.C.?
There are a plethora of things to do if you visit Washington, D.C., aside from WorldPride festivities. As well as the aforementioned nightlife, the most obvious thing you can’t miss is the city’s series of iconic monuments. You can visit everything from the White House to the Capitol building, and while it may feel cliché, it’s an absolute must to do.
Fiat Luxe Tours offer haunted tours of D.C. with the option of an LGBTQ+ guide, allowing you to see things from a unique perspective.
There’s also a vast array of shopping you can do in D.C., as the city has multiple malls and a number of independent businesses. The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City is an easy place to spend an afternoon, while the area of Georgetown has cute boutiques and other such stores scattered throughout.
If you like museums, then you’re also in luck, because DC is home to more than you’ll have time to see! These include:
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History;
- National Museum of Women in the Arts;
- National Air and Space Museum;
- National Museum of African American History and Culture;
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum;
- International Spy Museum.
To learn more about WorldPride, click here.
