We are absolutely thrilled to share some groundbreaking news: Cape Town Pride has officially won the bid to host WorldPride in 2028. This marks the very first time in history that WorldPride, the largest global LGBTQIA+ event, will take place on African soil.
A Milestone for Africa and the LGBTQIA+ Community
The decision was announced at InterPride’s 42nd Annual General Meeting & World Conference, held in Medellín, Colombia, from 23 to 27 October 2024. Out of 500 eligible voters, 198 ballots were cast. Cape Town secured 53% of the vote, beating Guadalajara Pride in Mexico, which received 44%. Only 3% abstained.
This victory is more than a win for South Africa, it’s a powerful symbol of visibility, resilience, and recognition for LGBTQIA+ people across the continent. For many queer Africans who face persecution and discrimination, WorldPride Cape Town 2028 represents a beacon of hope.
International Support and Celebration
InterPride Co-Presidents Ymania Brown, Hadi Damien, and Rahul Upadhyay congratulated Cape Town Pride, saying:
“We congratulate Cape Town Pride for winning the license to host WorldPride in 2028. We look forward to supporting them to deliver their bid, which promises to be a strong and impactful WorldPride. We also congratulate Guadalajara Pride for an excellent application.”
Cape Town Pride CEO Tommy Patterson added:
“We are thrilled at the news and for this support shown by our world LGBTI+ family. The team did a wonderful job, and we all forged great friendships and allies from Pride groups from all over the globe.”
Cllr Roberto Quintas, who represented the City of Cape Town, shared:
“It was an incredible privilege to be part of the WorldPride Cape Town 2028 Bid Team in Medellín. This means so much for LGBTQIA+ people without a voice, and those who live in fear of persecution. We are proud to bring this historic event home to our Mother City.”
What is WorldPride?
WorldPride is more than just a parade, it is a global celebration of diversity, human rights, and queer culture. The event includes:
-
A Human Rights Conference spotlighting international LGBTQIA+ struggles and victories.
-
Arts and culture programmes showcasing queer creativity from across the globe.
-
Social events that connect and celebrate our diverse community.
-
A powerful Pride march amplifying the realities of LGBTQIA+ lives.
It brings together activists, artists, politicians, allies, and everyday queer folk in one extraordinary celebration.
A Look Ahead
Cape Town now joins an iconic list of host cities, including Rome (2000), Jerusalem (2006), London (2012), Toronto (2014), Madrid (2017), New York City (2019), Copenhagen (2021), and Sydney (2023). The upcoming editions are Washington DC in 2025 and Amsterdam in 2026, before Cape Town proudly takes the stage in 2028.
This is more than just an event; it’s a chance for Africa to shine on the global LGBTQIA+ stage. Cape Town Pride 2028 will not only boost queer visibility but also highlight South Africa as a leader in equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Why This Matters
For queer Africans, WorldPride in Cape Town is a chance to be seen, heard, and celebrated. It’s a reminder that our continent is part of the global queer family, and that progress, even in the face of adversity, is possible.
We cannot wait to see the rainbow flags fly over Table Mountain in 2028.
