BRINGING DC TO THE WORLD + THE WORLD TO WASHINGTON DC
Since 2000, WorldPride has been held every two years in major cities worldwide, serving as one of the most prominent platforms to celebrate LGBTQ+ achievements and advocate for visibility, equity, and progress. These multi-week events feature parades, protests, festivals, cultural activities, and educational forums. Rome hosted the inaugural WorldPride in 2000, blending celebration and activism to set the tone for the international movement.
DC’s journey to host WorldPride 2025 began with a bold vision from CPA and the District’s LGBTQ+ community: to bring the world’s largest Pride celebration to the nation’s capital in a year marking 50 years since DC’s first Gay Pride Day. In November 2022, DC won the bid, delayed due to pandemic-related challenges, and organizers immediately began planning to honor five decades of LGBTQ+ activism.
CPA led planning with city leaders, community partners, and hundreds of volunteers, curating a dynamic program across six pillars: Arts + Culture, Celebration, Human Rights, Nightlife + Entertainment, Sports, and the 50th Anniversary.
DC’s long history as a center for activism, democracy, and civil rights made it uniquely suited to host WorldPride. Capital Pride began in 1975 as a one-day block party and grew into one of the largest Pride celebrations in the United States. With the largest LGBTQ+ population per capita of any U.S. city (14.3 percent), early marriage equality, and decades of visible advocacy, DC embodies the values of inclusion, recognition, and empowerment. Its status as a global hub of diplomacy, with embassies, international organizations, and media attention, amplified the reach and visibility of WorldPride DC.
Ultimately, WorldPride DC was more than a celebration — it was a demonstration of resilience, solidarity, and global leadership. The city’s rich history, vibrant community, and commitment to inclusion ensured participants from around the world felt welcome, safe, and inspired to take action within their own communities.
In the summer of 2025, Washington, DC, welcomed more than 1.2 million participants to WorldPride Washington DC 2025 (WorldPride DC), hosting 400 events in all corners of the United States capital. Envisioned as a celebration of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, plus (LGBTQ+) progress and joy, the moment arrived when the c-ommunity’s rights and freedoms were under renewed threats, transforming the celebration into a movement and making attendance an act of resistance.
Early in 2025, a sharp political backlash emerged: rollbacks of LGBTQ+ protections, attacks on DC’s home rule and budget, immigration and Trans bans, and efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. of defiance, solidarity, and courage and an opportunity for millions to gather, lift one another up, and be seen.
Despite these challenges, the celebration successfully united local, national, and international partners, grassroots leaders, city agencies, and hundreds of volunteers. Together, these coalitions brought the Fabric of Freedom to life over 23 days across streets, stages, and cultural institutions. The District’s unwavering support of the LGBTQ+ community created moments of joy amid adversity, bridged generations and identities, and generated over $310 million in economic impact for the city.
WorldPride DC will be remembered not only as the historic 50th anniversary of Pride in the nation’s capital but as proof of the power of a community united to celebrate, resist, and imagine freedom together.
RYAN BOS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CAPITAL PRIDE ALLIANCE
Beginning in October 2022 when InterPride bestowed the honor and responsibility of hosting WorldPride on Washington, DC, and the Capital Pride Alliance, we understood this was more than an event: it was a moment to impact our history and a challenge to learn from. We also knew that the course of history — the outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election — would have a profound impact on what WorldPride DC would ultimately become.
Even with this awareness, nothing could have fully prepared us for the magnitude of fear and uncertainty that gripped our community after the inauguration. Personally, I felt the weight of depression settle in as the political attacks continued to dehumanize the LGBTQ+ community and spur hate, impacting our everyday lives. The relentless attacks left so many of us searching for hope amid the calls to cancel, to boycott, to turn away from the work we had begun. All of these factors led to a significant reduction in financial support, from corporate pullback to a reallocation of city funds. Despite a 50 percent reduction in funds, WorldPride DC not only successfully proceeded, but we managed to award $1.4 million in grants to the community.
Yet in that struggle, we were defiant, showed our resilience, and ability to protest with radical joy. We knew, unequivocally, that meeting this moment mattered more than ever and were determined to have our voices heard, remain visible, and showcase the rich fabric that represents the District of Columbia.
I have so much pride in our team, partners, and DC community for showing up and welcoming the world during this defining time in our history.
On behalf of the Capital Pride Alliance and the entire WorldPride DC team — thank you for helping us create a moment that will live in our hearts forever.
The dream of hosting WorldPride in Washington, DC, began during an InterPride Conference in 2019 and was carried forward by Bernie Delia, a long-time member of the Capital Pride Alliance and WorldPride co-chair. Though Bernie passed away before the celebration, his spirit guided us every step of the way.
When the dream finally came to life, Washington, DC, pulsed with voices, laughter, and love. The city became a living rainbow — alive with music, protest, dancing, and joy. From our LGBTQ+ family to our friends and allies, we stood side by side, declaring that our movement is unstoppable. Strangers became family, and performances lifted us to our feet, reminding us of both pain and triumph. Our partners — API Pride, DC Black Pride, DC Latinx Pride, Silver Pride, Veterans Pride, Trans Pride, Women’s Pride, Youth Pride, and many others — wove their voices into the Fabric of Freedom, creating a symphony of resilience.
At the Human Rights Conference, leaders and advocates spoke truths that inspired us and reminded us that Pride is action as much as celebration. And when we gathered at the Lincoln Memorial for the International Rally + March on Washington for Freedom, we declared, with one voice, that we are the change. WorldPride DC was more than an event — it was a family, a promise, a spirit that lives on in us every single day, 365. Our very existence, by those attempting to tear our community apart. 2025 brings us all together from around the world, many coming from places that are struggling with issues similar to those here in the USA. We gathered to energize ourselves, to learn from each other’s experiences, and to work together, undeterred in our quest for rights and respect.
STAFF 2025
Ryan Bos, Executive Director
June Crenshaw, Deputy Director
Benjamin Jessee, Executive Assistant
Justin White, IT Consultant
Mike Alexander, Director of Development
Marquia Parnell, Director of Marketing and Communications
Nicole Barnes, Chief Financial Officer
Sahand Miraminy, Director of Operations
Tiffany Royster, Director of Community Engagement
Aaron Darden, Festival Manager
Adrian Weselin, Accounting Support
Al Pellenberg, Art Director
Brandon Bayton Jr., Special Projects & Influencer Manager
Bryan Davis, Accessibility and Volunteer Manager Candice Williams, Block Party Manager
Chad Cipiti, Website Engineer
Connor Coleman, Talent Manager
Dave Coben, Transportation Manager
Diana North, Parade Manager
Grace Thompson, Capital Cup Manager
Jennifer Hall, Logistics Manager
Jerry Huster, Director of Entertainment
Jen Billingslea, Registration Manager
Julie Hansen, March and Rally Manager
Kristopher Thompson, Operations Manager
Linda Lindamood, Director of Health and Safety
Marty Nee, Media Director
Monica Alford, Ceremonial Manager
Patrick McKiernan, Beverage Manager
Peter Morgan, Director of Special Projects
Winter Snitz-Meza, Human Rights Conference Manager
COMMEMORATIVE BOOK
Peter Morgan, Project Manager
Marquia Parnell, Content Mangement
Al Pellenberg, Design + Layout
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2025
Ashley Smith, President
Anthony Musa, Vice President
Natalie Thompson, VP Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA)
Anna Jinkerson, Interim Treasurer
Robert L. York, Jr., Emeritus Council Chair
Giovanni Rocco
Lukas Pietrzak
Kim Baker
Dai Nguyen
Taylor Chandler
Jody Wright
Vernon Wall
Robert Code
HONORARY CO-CHAIRS
Ebone Bell, Earline Budd, Chris Dyer, Ella Fitzgerald, Earl Fowlkes, Charles Francis, Jose Guiterez, Ernest Hopkins, Ken Las Vegas, Marsha Levine, Deacon Maccubbin, Jim Bennett, Mark Meinke, Brent Minor, Frank Nowicki, Rayceen Pendarvis, Josh Riley, Rick Rosendall, Robert L. York, Jr.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS
Chris Avery, Zach Bache, Ric Legg Benavides, Sharlet Carlos, Tiffanie Drayton, Jake Eberts, Aaron Fishbach, Corey Fisher, Calle Garneau, Brian Glasser, Michael Lopez, Patrick Magee, Deborah McQueen, Shaunflow Odom, Ryann Perkins, Judy Schloss, Jonathon Sorge, Jay Soriano, Todd Stone, H.L. Sudler, Alan Thompson, William Wermerskirchen, Kraig Williams, Ryan Williams, Tyler Witman
COMMITTEES
50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE
Robert L. York, Jr. and Christopher Dyer, Co-Chairs
Volunteers: Tara Cheston, Phillip Godorov, Corey Mitchell, Kate Shim, Brian Rink, Cesar Toledo, Rayceen Pendarvis, Nancy Canas, Julio Acevedo\
NIGHTLIFE COMMITTEE
Ed Bailey, Kurt Graves, and DJ Honey, Co-Chairs
Volunteers: Rich Kleck, Sean Morris, Daryl Wilson
ARTS + CULTURE
Charlotte Newman, Jarrett Smith, and Vincenzo Volpe, Co-Chairs
Volunteers: Francisco Alvarez-Higareda, Amy Austin, Marvin Bowser, Peter Cajina, Joshua Cook, Dance, Josh Feldman, Josh Feldman,Katie Fuhs, Imani Greene, Jonathan Kuhl, Ronald Lloveras, Andrew Lokay, Arnab Majumdar, John Modica, Floyd Montero, Hallie Munsat, SC Nealy, Sean Norman, Christopher Prince, Christopher Prince, Carlo Reyes, Nati Reyes, Brad Sickels, James Stewart, William Terrini, Alberto Ucles, Vincenzo Volpe, Taylor Walker, Jordan Wells, Jordan Wells, Krista Yates
FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE
Sebastian Steadman, Anna Jinkerson, Co-Chair
Volunteers: Orri Croft, Salah Czapary, Carolina Furukrona, Erin Nicols, Jack Ralston, Will Verastegui, Jenny Williams
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE
Volunteers: Sam Alleman, Jordan Finkelstein, Jose Gaona, Morgan Jameson, Jeff Larivee, Ryan Migeed, Kevin Minoli, Marco Sanchez, Matt Ziegman
HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE
Kim Baker, Nate Harvey, Kenya Hutton, Thomas Pitchford, Natalie Thompson, Shane Westmoreland, Co-Chairs
Volunteers: Julio Acevedo, Diego Garcia Blim, Richard Brethour-Bell, Deb Brototo, Ian Brown, Doug Bunch, Nancy Canas, Allister Chang, Brendan Fields, Kendra Frith, Jose Gaona, Jay Gilliam, Hope Giselle, Shua Goodwin, Reggie
Greer, Zack Hasychak, Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, Reilly Hirst, David Johns, Kierra Johnson, Owen Johnson, Craig Konnoth, Jason Laney, Aubrey Lay, Victor Madrigal, Marissa Miller, Preston Mitchum, Andraelya Moody, Briana Niblick, Ntale Geofrey Price, Allen Rose, Bianca Sprague, Hancie Stokes, Roberta Sumner, Valerie Sumner, Jami Vallesteros, Frankie Witzenburg, John Wright, Rebecca York
TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE
Michael Edmonson and Danny Izquierdo, Co-Chairs
Volunteers: Pari Baker, Chad Cipiti, Mikael Davis, Matt Eckl, Ed Engles, Marcy Ewald, Michael Gavin, Lawrence Getubig, Paige Hendrick, Sueah Kim, Josh Levie, Maggie Mau, Jacqueline O’Reilly, Lukas Pietrzak, Neil Shah, Paul Smedberg, Weston Taylor , Alan Thompson, Gina Vandivier, Abraham Walker, Sebastian Wasinger, James Willard, Olivia Woods
ORGANIZATIONS
THE MAYOR’S OFFICE
Japer Bowles Layma Askarzoi, Pip Baitinger, Shilpa Bannadi, Janelle Edge, Anthony Fox, George Garcia, Riley Reed, Sheika Reid, Gina Rupert, Jim Slattery, Tomas Talamante, Darius Taylor, Gaby Vincent, Rae Dyson, Steven Walker, Marc Washington
THE MAYOR’S SPECIAL EVENT TASK GROUP
DESTINATION DC
Elliott Ferguson, Theresa Belpulsi, Nick Price, Holly Rattanakone, Lindsay Hill, Halia Ellis, Danielle Davis, Kyle Deckelbaum, Georgia Lucus, Christen Miller, Claire Carlin, Kara Johnson, Sandra Whitehead, Laura Calhoun, Torri Christian, Robin McClain
EVENTS DC
Angie Gates, Paul Smedberg, Lawrence Hamm
DC COMMISSION ON THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES
Aaron Meyers, Christopher Naoum, Lucy Hernandez, Grace Allen
Bernie Delia
It was with great sadness that the Capital Pride Alliance mourned the passing of Bernie Delia. During WorldPride 2025, we reflected on his life and legacy as a champion, activist, survivor, mentor, friend, leader, and a true inspiration to the LGBTQ+ community. Bernie was reunited with his husband Doug and his sweet angel Lani.
Bernie Delia, who served as co-chair of WorldPride, was a founding member of the Capital Pride Alliance and a six-year Board President who committed himself to the mission and success of Capital Pride. He served as President of Dignity Washington for many years, creating an environment for spiritual enrichment during the height of the AIDS epidemic. He also had a distinguished legal career, serving as one of the first openly gay appointees at the U.S. Department of Justice and later as an appellate attorney.
An avid runner, he served as the coordinator of the DC Front Runners and was a close supporter of Stonewall Kickball’s JTT Team. He understood the value, purpose, and urgency of the LGBTQ+ community working together and supporting one another. He poured his soul into the journey toward WorldPride, a goal he had championed from the start of his involvement with Capital Pride.
Even in his absence, Bernie continued to guide us forward as we worked to meet this important milestone and gather with the world to be visible, heard, and authentic.
BERNIE, WE DID IT!
EDITOR’S NOTE: Times New Roman was Bernie’s favorite font and in his memory we use it here.
THE FABRIC OF FREEDOM
Throughout history, people have used fabrics as expressive symbols, to communicate identities, and as forms of resistance. While the LGBTQ+ community faces growing challenges both in the United States and worldwide from those seeking to divide rather than unite, it’s the fabric of our community — through our rich cultures, diverse identities, and backgrounds — that will guide us forward towards a better future.
As Washington, DC, hosted WorldPride in 2025 and commemorated 50 years, we welcomed visitors from around the world to celebrate our vibrant community and continue the fight for equality.
Every one of us — new threads woven together — strengthen the fabric of our community, and of this global movement. While the fabric of the LGBTQ+ Progress Pride flag symbolizes the diversity of our community, it is our shared humanity and unshakable unity that defines our greatest strength. We are people bound by love and acceptance, struggle and resilience, our past and our future, forging an ever-evolving community that together embodies The Fabric of Freedom.
The African Print Design ethos is deeply intertwined with cultural identity, history, and artistic expression. While wax print techniques have roots in Indonesian batik and were introduced by Dutch traders, African communities embraced and adapted them, making them a vibrant symbol of African culture and heritage.
The Classic Argyll Diamond pattern is originally derived from the tartan of Clan Campbell of Argyll in western Scotland and has been worn by Scottish Highlanders from the 17th century
Japanese Wave Designs encapsulate the raw power of nature, particularly the sea. Japan’s geography, with its extensive coastline and susceptibility to tsunamis, has fostered a deep reverence for the ever-changing and sometimes tumultuous seas. These designs celebrate the awe-inspiring force of nature itself.
Gingham is a classic checked pattern characterized by evenly sized and spaced squares in two colors, typically white and another contrasting hue. It is a simple design, yet its appeal lies in its versatility and enduring nature And of course Dorthory wore a blue and white gingham pinafore thougthout the Wizard of Oz.
The Mandala (Sanskrit for circle) In Balinese Hinduism and Borobudur’s structure, is a fundamental design principle, representing the cosmos and spiritual harmony. In Indonesian design, the circle, and circular patterns, represent a profound design ethos embodying interconnectedness, balance, and the flow of life.
Native American Design often feature elements from nature such as geometric patterns like spirals representing life’s journey, animals symbolizing various traits like the eagle representing strength and wisdom. Colors also carry specific meanings, like red for war or life, blue for the sky or water, and yellow for the sun or happiness.
The Houndstooth Design revolves around a strong connection to its historical roots combined with the versatility to evolve and be reinterpreted in contemporary contexts, the pattern was initially known as “Shepherd’s Check” and was favored for its durability and rustic charm as outerwear for shepherds in the mountians of Europe
The Core Of Paisley is the teardrop or almond shape, known as “boteh” or “buta” (Persian for flower or budding plant), is believed to have originated in ancient Persia, and has absorbed influences from various cultures along its journey, including Persian, Indian, and European aesthetics, leading to a diversity of interpretations.
Zulu Geometric Design is not simply decorative. It’s a rich language that conveys status, social identity, messages between individuals, and stories of heritage, The shapes, especially triangles, are used to convey information about marital status and gender. A downward-pointing triangle signifies an unmarried woman, while an upward-pointing triangle signifies an unmarried man.
ARTS + CULTURE
SPORTS HUMAN RIGHTS
As home to one of the first gay rights organizations in the world, Washington, DC, has long been central to LGBTQ+ arts, culture, intelligentsia, and civil rights.
Recent history has demonstrated that sports present opportunities to advance awareness, understanding, acceptance, and equality for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
With national and international LGBTQ+ organizations headquartered here, DC fostered important dialogue and inspired real action throughout the world.
NIGHTLIFE
WorldPride DC featured vibrant parties, live performances, and cultural events, with top DJs, drag shows, and plenty of LGBTQ+ friendly bars and nightclubs.
At its core, pride celebrations are a form of protest. An array of festivities demonstrated DC’s place as one of the most celebrated LGBTQ+ centers in the world.
A celebration of five decades of advocacy, visibility, and unity for the LGBTQ+ community in DC. This milestone honored the past, celebrated the present, and inspired the future.
ARTS + CULTURE
Arts + Culture was central to WorldPride DC, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices and creativity across Washington, DC. From intimate gatherings like the WorldPride Virtual Book Club to the powerful storytelling of the WorldPride 2025 Film Festival, each event created space for reflection, dialogue, and connection. SIgnature events such as the Garden of Swann Queer Fashion Show transformed self-expression into celebration, turning the city into a vibrant canvas of Pride, resilience, and imagination.
15th STREET RAINBOW MURAL
The 15th Street Rainbow Road Mural Project transformed over 10,000 square feet of protected bike lanes and no-parking zones into a rainbowhued celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and visibility. Led by renowned muralist Lisa Marie Thalhammer and commissioned in partnership with CPA, the project brought together 165 participants — including 157 volunteers and eight LGBTQ+ artists — to create what is believed to be one of the longest murals of its kind. Spanning 15th Street between O and V streets NW, the mural not only celebrates LGBTQ+ identity, but also enhances street safety.
RAINBOW HISTORY
PROTEST REENACTMENT
The Rainbow History Project reenacted the historic first gay picket marking one month until the opening of our upcoming exhibit on the evolution of Pride and political resistance: Pickets, Protests, and Parades: The History of Gay Pride in Washington. Alongside the local advocates were eight of our Community Pioneers; Deacon Maccubbin and Jim Bennett, Leti Gomez, Paul Kuntzler, Jessica Xavier, Jill Strachan, Craig Howell, and Lou Chibbaro.
AIDS MEMORIAL QUILT
We had the profound honor of remembering and uplifting the countless lives lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic through the display of selected panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt at our WorldPride Visual Arts + Welcome Center and other partner events. These panels, lovingly stitched, painted, embroidered, and crafted by friends, families, and entire communities, stood as powerful testaments to love, grief, resilience, and remembrance. Each panel carried a story — some exuberant, some quiet, some heartbreaking, and all deeply human.
PICKETS, PROTESTS, + PARADES
Pickets, Protests, and Parades: The History of Gay Pride in Washington, on Freedom Plaza, was a one-of-akind history exhibit that portrayed the origin story of DC Pride activities and how the pickets and protests of the 1960s led to parades and celebrations of the 2020s — and all the politics and drama in between.
GRAVES + GAYS
The Association for the Preservation of Historic Congressional Cemetery hosted a one-of-a-kind Pride celebration at DC’s Historic Congressional Cemetery with programming that highlighted the stories of LGBTQ+ pioneers and activists laid to rest there, offering a meaningful opportunity to to celebrate Pride while honoring those who paved the way.
INTERNATIONAL CHORAL FESTIVAL
As the centerpiece of WorldPride DC’s arts calendar, the International Choral Festivalv— anchored by the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC — ignited the city with 50 performances across 14 days, celebrating the vibrant voices that make up the fabric of Queer freedom. From youth choruses to legendary vocal
OF EXPRESSION
We collaborated with Busboys and Poets to host the annual Night of Queer Expression. The gathering created an open, affirming space for all, welcoming every gender identity and especially encouraging trans women and cis women to share their voices from the stage.
Team DC proudly led the local coordination of the inaugural Capital Cup Sports Festival, an ambitious multi-sport tournament held across the DC Metropolian Region. The event welcomed more than 3,000 athletes from around the globe, who competed in 18 sports in partnership with over 40 LGBTQ+ sports organizations.
The Capital Cup became a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ athleticism, camaraderie, and community pride. Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with athletes praising the supportive environment, the chance to meet and compete with LGBTQ+ peers from around the world, and opportunities to try new sports.
ARTISTIC SWIMMING
WATER POLO
HUMAN RIGHTS
Human rights are woven into Washington, DC’s legacy as the heart of the nation’s fight for justice, equality, and freedom.
Long a city of activism and progress, the capital once again brought this legacy to life during WorldPride DC, as advocates, organizers, and allies from around the world gathered to elevate LGBTQ+ voices, confront injustice, and reaffirm a global commitment to dignity, safety, and human rights for all Pride, resilience, and imagination.
HUMAN RIGHTS CONFERENCE
Amid escalating political attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, the WorldPride DC Human Rights Conference became a crucial gathering for unity, strategy, and global action. Over three days, speakers, advocates, and creators addressed urgent challenges facing LGBTQ+ communities worldwide through workshops, strategy sessions, and bold conversations.
The National Trans Visibility March (NTVM) made history by partnering with WorldPride DC to host a one-day Policy + Safety Summit within the conference. Featuring more than 30 Trans-led organizations, the summit delivered multilingual, culturally rooted programming that elevated Trans and gender-nonconforming voices on a global stage.
INTERNATIONAL MARCH + RALLY FOR FREEDOM
Thousands gathered at the Lincoln Memorial for a rain-soaked yet powerful rally and march that closed the weekend with a clear call to action. Led by local, national, and international advocates, the event highlighted global solidarity, with participants carrying the names of LGBTQ+ people who could not march themselves. Speakers warned of rising threats to fundamental freedoms and democracy, urging collective resistance. As marchers moved toward the U.S. Capitol, the moment echoed Pride’s protest roots and affirmed that the Fabric of Freedom grows stronger when we stand together.
NIGHTLIFE + ENTERTAINMENT
Nightlife and Entertainment added energy and celebration to WorldPride DC, as local producers and promoters curated a range of events across the city.
Signature parties, including Full Bloom, Woven Together, Unraveled: Women’s Party, and Fabric of Freedom, highlighted the vibrancy of Washington, DC’s queer nightlife scene, offering spaces to connect, dance, and celebrate together.
While the work ahead remained serious, these moments of joy provided meaningful opportunities for community connection and expression throughout the WorldPride DC experience.
FULL BLOOM DANCE PARTY
Produced by the Flower Factory and Sweet Spot, this event turned 100,000 square feet into a technicolor rave garden, with sets by UNIIQU3, The Carry Nation, Dev, and DJ Ed Bailey across three stages. From carnival games to floral fits, this nightlife event for the 21+ crowd was part rave, part county fair, and all fabulous.
UNRAVELED WOMENS PARTY
Produced by Party With Honey and A 2 Zee Events, the party took over all four floors of The Park at 14th with more than 5,000 Queer women, femmes, Trans, and nonbinary guests. An all-female DJ lineup and a surprise appearance by Harlem star Jerrie Johnson made this an affirming, high-energy celebration of identity and visibility.
FABRIC OF FREEDOM MAIN PARTY
Produced by KINETIC Presents, the Cherry Fund, and the Capital Pride Alliance, united thousands in the largest nighttime WorldPride party. With headliners Pabllo Vittar and Alyssa Edwards and performances across three stages, the venue vibrated with music, movement, and liberation.
WORLD PRIDE MUSIC FESTIVAL GLOBAL DANCE PARTY
Produced by Dreamland and Insomniac Events, the festival featured three stages and a genre-spanning lineup of global superstars including Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, RuPaul, Kim Petras, Renée Rapp, Paris Hilton, and Purple Disco Machine — plus hometown heroes like Ed Bailey and Fish House Funk. With
CELEBRATION
WorldPride DC affirmed that joy and advocacy were equally powerful forces in the movement for equality.
Through the expanded annual Pride Festival and Concert, Washington, DC came alive with music, color, and connection. These celebratory moments honored the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience and achievements, amplified visibility, and reminded the world that celebrating who we are is itself an act of Pride and progress.
MAYORAL FLAG RAISING
+ WELCOME RECEPTION
WorldPride DC opened with a powerful and symbolic moment as DC Mayor Muriel Bowser joined more than 200 community members and local activists on the historic steps of the John A. Wilson Building for the ceremonial raising of the LGBTQ+ flag.
Later that week, when a last-minute cancellation required a swift pivot within 24 hours, organizers transformed the planned Welcome Concert at Nationals Park into a Welcome Ceremony at the Rubell Museum, DC, where Mayor Bowser, the Capital Pride Alliance, and InterPride welcomed more than 300 guests to celebrate the beginning of
VISUAL ARTS + WELCOME CENTER
The WorldPride Visual Arts and Welcome Center served as an open-door gathering place, inviting community members, residents, and visitors to connect with Destination DC and WorldPride DC staff, purchase merchandise, and reflect on the last 50 years of Pride in the nation’s capital. The Fabric of Freedom lounge provided a welcoming space to rest, recharge, and absorb the vibrancy of Pride.
DC BLACK PRIDE
The Center for Black Equity is a global network committed to advancing health, economic empowerment, and equal rights for Black LGBTQ+ communities. It organizes DC Black Pride, the first official Black gay Pride event in the United States, which began in 1991 to raise HIV/AIDS awareness and continues to celebrate Black LGBTQ+ culture and resilience annually over Memorial Day weekend in Washington, DC.
The API Pride Coalition was formed to center and celebrate Queer Asian and Pacific Islander identities, which are too often overlooked within broader LGBTQ+ spaces. By creating intentional platforms for visibility — on stage, in leadership, and in community — API Pride affirmed that representation is not only powerful, but necessary.
NATIONAL TRANS VISIBILITY MARCH
The National Trans Visibility March was a powerful call to action, bringing the community together to demand protection, challenge erasure, and center Trans lives in spaces of power. Participants gathered at the Human Rights Campaign headquarters to prepare signs and then marched together to the International Rally and March, united in purpose, visibility, and strength.
Trans-centered programming at WorldPride DC boldly created safe spaces amid heightened safety concerns and a challenging U.S. political climate. International travelers faced added risks, yet organizers worked tirelessly to create secure, affirming spaces where Trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people could gather in joy and solidarity.
DEAF, DEAFBLIND, DEAF DISABLED, AND HARD OF HEARING PRIDE
As part of its commitment to disability inclusion, WorldPride DC awarded a community grant to the DC Association of the Deaf (DCAD) to support accessible, affirming programming. In collaboration with the Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf, DCAD led a series of events created specifically for community members, including ASL Poly Social Night, BIPOC ASL Queer Night, a Lesbian/Trans/Nonbinary Social, a Queer cookout, and an ASL Open Mic. These gatherings created meaningful, inclusive spaces that centered accessibility, connection, visibility, and Pride.
DIVERSITY OF PRIDES YOUTH
PRIDE
Youth Pride at WorldPride DC created safe, empowering spaces for LGBTQ+ youth, families, educators, and allies through a coalition led by organizations including SMYAL, Latin America Youth Center, and Shout Mouth Press. Events ranged from family-friendly gatherings and teen activities to Gen Z–focused programming and educator support. Together, these experiences celebrated identity, resilience, and youth leadership while connecting young people to affirming community and resources.
WorldPride DC centered faith and spirituality through inclusive interfaith programming produced by Center Faith, affirming the vital role of belief in LGBTQ+ life. The Pride Interfaith Service at All Souls Church Unitarian continued a 42-year tradition, bringing together 37 faith leaders and community voices and welcoming hundreds of participants in person and online. Additional gatherings, including the Interfaith Community Faith Leaders Brunch and Pride in Pluralism, fostered reflection, dialogue, and cross-faith solidarity while inspiring continued fellowship and collective action.
DIVERSITY
VETERAN & MILITARY PRIDE
The first-ever DC Veteran and Service Pride Weekend celebrated and supported LGBTQ+ individuals across military and veteran communities in a citywide series of events. As the first known Pride weekend in the nation specifically dedicated to LGBTQ+ service members and veterans, it marked a historic and meaningful inclusion in the broader DIVERSITY OF PRIDES programming.
The Women’s Pride Coalition, a collective of organizers and community leaders, curated a powerful lineup of womencentered events for WorldPride DC. With an emphasis on wellness, inclusion, the arts, and community, it amplified LGBTQ+ women’s voices and made a strong call to action for lesbians to unite!
DC LATINX PRIDE
This year’s DC Latinx Pride 2025 theme, ¡Libre Soy!, was a powerful declaration that freedom to exist, love, and celebrate can never be taken away. Featuring more than 20 events, the celebration honored the resilience, culture, and history of Latinx LGBTQ+ communities through a dynamic mix of lively fiestas, spiritual and healing spaces, political discussions, and community gatherings.
Silver Pride honored the trailblazers of the LGBTQ+ movement — older adults whose lives and activism shaped the freedoms we celebrate today. From Stonewall to the AIDS crisis to the ongoing fight for inclusion, this generation embodies resilience wisdom, and Pride.
17TH ST BLOCK PARTY
The 17th Street Block Party, in collaboration with the Historic Dupont Circle Main Streets, transformed historic Dupont Circle into a vibrant celebration stitched together by music, community, and Pride.
Thousands gathered to enjoy live performances, food, and dancing. The event honored the neighborhood’s legacy as the city’s first “gayborhood,” a center of Queer activism.
WORLD PRIDE PARADE
The WorldPride Parade transformed DC’s streets into a vibrant river of color and community, marking 50 years of Pride in the nation’s capital. With more than 300 participating groups and 35,000 marchers it became the largest Pride parade in the District’s history, beginning in the historic U Street Corridor and ending on Pennsylvania Avenue with the U.S. Capitol as its backdrop. Grand Marshals Renée Rapp and Laverne Cox led a procession that featured Indigenous leaders and a 1,000-foot rainbow flag, courtesy of the Gilbert Baker Foundation.
WORLD PRIDE STREET FESTIVAL
The WorldPride Street Festival transformed six blocks of Pennsylvania Avenue — between the White House and the U.S. Capitol — into a vibrant celebration of food, music, art, and community over two unforgettable days. As one of the last and largest free Pride festivals in the nation, it served as the culminating hub of WorldPride DC, hosting the Parade’s finish and the Post-Parade and Closing Concerts. With hundreds of nonprofit and vendor booths, 84 performers across four stages, and seven themed entertainment zones, the festival showcased local, national, and international talent while offering something for everyone, from family activities at Camp Pride to late-night dancing against the Capitol backdrop.
CAMP PRIDE FAMILY ZONE
As part of WorldPride DC, Camp Pride became the ultimate kids’ zone — a fun-filled oasis where young campers unleashed their creativity, played freely, and celebrated in a vibrant, inclusive space.
Perfect for families, young adventurers, and children of all ages, Camp Pride offered a safe and joyful retreat where imagination and fun took center stage. It brought a touch of summer camp magic to the heart of the WorldPride celebrations.
WORLD PRIDE CONCERT
The energy sizzled during the day and, rather than fading into the sunset, it erupted into a dazzling display of Pride on the Capitol Concert Stage. The celebration soared into the evening with a free open-air concert on Pennsylvania Avenue, where hundreds of thousands gathered by the glow of the U.S. Capitol for Saturday’s unforgettable performances by Cynthia Erivo, David Archuleta, Kristine W., and CeCe Peniston.
That momentum carried seamlessly into Sunday’s grand finale as WorldPride DC concluded with a spectacular Closing Concert headlined by Doechii. Hundreds of thousands filled the festival grounds again, dancing into the night as Khalid, Brooke Eden, 2AM Ricky, Parker Matthews, MkX, and local artists delivered a vibrant, joyfilled finish to an extraordinary weekend of celebration.
CLOSING CEREMONY
The ceremonial handoff of WorldPride to Amsterdam, the 2026 host city, marked the official passing of the WorldPride title.
Pride Amsterdam organizers, joined by Amsterdam’s Deputy Mayor Touria Meliani, shared a video inviting the world to their celebration, followed by the symbolic transfer of Gender Neutral Gerry and the Sydney WorldPride Talking Stick — a tradition honoring BIPOC leadership and one Capital Pride Alliance organizers had also participated in during WorldPride Sydney in 2023.
InterPride Co-Presidents joined the moment, underscoring the continuity of a global movement rooted in equality and love.
50TH ANNIVERSARY
The 50th Anniversary marked a defining milestone during WorldPride DC, commemorating five decades of advocacy, visibility, and unity for the LGBTQ+ community in Washington, DC.
This moment honored the pioneers and activists, both living and remembered, who laid the foundation for progress, celebrated the strength and diversity of the community today, and inspired a renewed commitment to the future.
As part of WorldPride DC, the anniversary served as both a reflection on how far the movement had come and a call to continue building a more just, inclusive, and vibrant future for generations to come.
TASTE OF PRIDE
Taste of Pride invited our community to embark on a delectable culinary journey unlike any before it. From January 30th through July 31st, the program brought forth an extraordinary celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and the diverse dining landscape of the National Capital Region. The collaboration among Washington, DC’s Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), each highlighting the distinctive flavors, traditions, and talents that defined their neighborhoods. Throughout the season, talented chefs and remarkable restaurants curated exceptional menus that beautifully showcased the depth and creativity of their culinary artistry.
MISS, MR, MX CAPITAL PRIDE
Before the WorldPride DC festivities began, fierce competition werked the runway, wowed the crowd with their talents, and brought their A-game in hopes of claiming the titles of Mr., Mx., or Miss Capital Pride 2025. The evening concluded with the crowning of the 2025 Capital Court: Miss Shelita Ramen, Mx. Sirene Noir Sidora Jackson, and Mr. Jackson B Nite.
CAPITAL PRIDE HONORS
In honor of the 50th anniversary of Pride celebrations in DC, this red carpet-style gala highlighted both national and international leaders whose work continues to expand visibility, inclusion, and equality.
Guests in elaborate ensembles were welcomed by the spirited Cheer DC squad before ending the night on the dance floor to the beats of DJ Kitty Glitter.
SPECIAL THANK YOU
ABC 7
AQUA/QTAPI
ARLINGTON SPORTS
ATLANTIC STATES
GAY RODEO ASSOCIATION
CENTER FOR BLACK EQUITY
DARYL WILSON PRODUCTIONS
DC FRONTRUNNERS
DC LATINX HISTORY PROJECT
DC’S DIFFERENT DRUMMERS
DC CENTRAL KITCHEN
DESIGN ARMY
DESTINATION DC
DOWNTOWN DC BID
EVENTS DC
EMBASSY OF SWEDEN
FIRST WATCH EVENTS
FLOWER FACTORY
FRIENDS OF STEAD PARK
GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON, DC
GLOW
HP EVENTS
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN
HUMANS OF PRIDE
INTERPRIDE
JAKE RESNICOW PRODUCTIONS
JOY RIOT
KINETIC PRESENTS
LRA PR
LINDER GLOBAL EVENTS
LIVE NATION
LOST GENERATION BREWERY
LUCKY BREAK PR
MARCH FOR ALL
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF ASIAN PACIFIC ISLANDER AFFAIRS
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF WOMEN’S POLICY AND INITIATIVES
DC COMMISSION ON THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES
DC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DC HEALTH
DC’S OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY MAYOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY
DC’S OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY MAYOR OF PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
MCCARTER & ENGLISH, LLP
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF DEAF DEAFBLIND AND HARD OF HEARING
MAYOR’S OFFICE OF LGBTQ AFFAIRS
MAYOR’S SPECIAL EVENT TASK GROUP
METRO WEEKLY
METROPOLITAN WASHINGTON AIRPORT AUTHORITY
MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE
MILITARY PRIDE (MODERN MILITARY)
MLK MEMORIAL LIBRARY
NATIONAL TRANS VISIBILITY MARCH
NATIONALS PARK
OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY MAYOR FOR PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
OUTRIGHT INTERNATIONAL
PARTY WITH HONEY
SANDLOT DC
SEABURY RESOURCES
SERVE DC
SMYAL
SPACES OF PRIDE
STRATUS FIRM
SWEET SPOT
ST. LUKES EPISCOPAL CHURCH
TEAM DC
TEAM RAYCEEN
THE BRAND GUILD
THE CHERRY FUND
THE GILBERT BAKER FOUNDATION
THE NATIONAL CATHEDRAL
THE RUBELL MUSEUM
THE WHARF
TRANS COALITION
TRANS PRIDE WASHINGTON DC
WILD SIDE MEDIA
WHITMAN WALKER HEALTH
VRS MEETINGS AND EVENTS
AND A HOST OF VENUES, BUSINESSES, AND ORGANIZATIONS ACROSS THE CITY BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY!
ADVOCATES
The staff, Board of Directors, and our team of dedicated volunteers, extend a very warm thank you to all of our proud WorldPride DC Advocates (major companies and organizations) who provided crucial financial and in-kind support in such a critical and challenging year.
Our Pride Advocates are true allies in our fight for justice. They help amplify the voices and visibility of our incredible LGBTQ+ community. As a small nonprofit organization, the Capital Pride Alliance thrives because our Pride Advocates help us create safe and accessible events for everyone.
Celebration is resistance. Amid anger, fear, and exhaustion, Pride remains a powerful protest of joy and celebration. Dancing in the streets, waving flags, gathering proudly — all of this defies those who prefer LGBTQ+ people to be silent, invisible, or erased. Pride reminds us that our existence is powerful. Thank you to our Pride Advocates for helping us continue our mission in strength and solidarity.
CAPTURE TEAM
Thank you to our amazing volunteer photography team and LGBTQ+ organizations for their contributions to the WorldPride DC Commemorative Book.
Amber McRae
Andrew Nasonov
Annabelle Papke AQUA DC
Belinda Shao
Bradford Norse
Brandon Weldon Catrece Mariano
Dima Gilmour
Elizabeth Billman
Elvert Barnes
Emily Alff
Geoff Livingston
Idris Evans
Jeffrey Feng
Joe Sirakas
John Abdullah
Joy Noel
Judy Schloss
KC Felzener
Lacey Rahmani
Latinx History Project
Laura Marchetti
Lauren Victor
LGT Images
Mandie Garcia
Mark Mahon Obediah
Owen McCullum
Patrick Magee
Renon Guttsu
Robin Fader
San Hinton
Seabury Resources Team DC
The Mayor’s Office of DC
LGBTQ+ Affairs
Tiffanie Drayton
William Leucht
Yuletta Pringle
Yulia Fernandez Marcos
Yuri Lee
Zamantta Larios
WORLD PRIDE STAFF + VOLUNTEERS
The WorldPride DC team began working on this adventure and mamoth undertaking almost 4 years ago with the initial presentaion to Interpride and being awarded as the host city. Some joined during the following year and some in the last few months before WorldPride DC 2025 kicked off. It took not just a village but close to a small city to make it happen.
THANK YOU: for your time, for your dedication for your sweat and tears, and most importanly for your PRIDE!
