The nation’s capital is preparing to host WorldPride, one of the largest international LGBTQ+ festivals, from May 25 through June 8. The celebration is expected to draw up to 3 million visitors and inject an estimated $787 million into the local economy. However, the event arrives under the shadow of a shifting political landscape that has cast uncertainty over what is usually a jubilant, global gathering.
This marks the first time WorldPride returns to the United States since New York hosted the event in 2019. But unlike the celebratory atmosphere of that year, this iteration opens in a politically charged environment following the return of Donald Trump to the presidency. His administration has rolled back several LGBTQ+ protections, declined to recognize Pride Month officially, and taken stances viewed by many advocates as hostile to LGBTQ+ communities.
Foreign governments have taken notice. Countries including Denmark, Germany, and Ireland have issued travel advisories for trans and non-binary travelers visiting the U.S. due to safety concerns. Human rights organizations, such as Egale Canada and the African Human Rights Coalition, have opted to boycott the event entirely.
Adding to the tension, several major corporate sponsors—traditionally prominent at WorldPride events—have pulled back from this year’s festivities. Companies such as Deloitte, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Comcast reportedly withdrew support over fears of backlash from the federal government.
Organizers, led by DC WorldPride and the Capital Pride Alliance, are still pushing forward, but with clear signs of scaling down. A two-day street festival downtown will, for the first time, include fencing and security checkpoints due to increased threats against LGBTQ+ communities nationwide. Political observers note that this year’s event has taken on a tone of resistance rather than celebration.
Despite reduced international delegations and scaled-back receptions, the program remains star-studded. Shakira is set to headline the opening concert at Nationals Park on May 31, with additional performances by Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, Cynthia Erivo, and Doechii scheduled across multiple venues. The main parade is set for June 7, with a culminating rally at the Lincoln Memorial on June 8 expected to carry a strong political message.
While many participants are arriving with a renewed sense of purpose, there’s a palpable undercurrent of anxiety. Local residents in D.C.’s LGBTQ+ neighborhoods have begun putting up rainbow-themed “Welcome” signs, offering a warm greeting amid the tension. But the message from many is clear: this year’s WorldPride is not just a celebration—it’s a statement.
