The streets of Europe’s capital will once again be adorned with the vibrant colors of the rainbow for Brussels Pride. This year’s theme, “Unite, time to protect our rights,” emphasizes the necessity of a society where the fundamental rights of all individuals are upheld on a daily basis. This powerful and unifying message is particularly vital in these challenging times, as the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community continue to face significant threats.
Brussels serves as the starting point for the European Pride season, with an anticipated turnout of 200,000 individuals who will gather to advocate for their rights and celebrate diversity. This demonstration is essential for safeguarding the fundamental rights of the LGBTQIA+ community.
In 2025, the Pride movement will focus on unity to defend the rights, freedoms, health, identity, diversity, existence, and struggles of the LGBTQIA+ community. The political climate in Belgium, Europe, and globally increasingly jeopardizes these rights through various bans and threats, with institutional pressure remaining a constant concern. Pride provides a peaceful platform to remind political leaders of the critical importance of defending these rights and the necessity for governments to adhere to international human rights standards.
It is imperative to unite in support of every individual, irrespective of their origin, gender, religion, culture, skin color, disability, or any other aspect of their identity. The LGBTQIA+ community continues to endure violence and discrimination in various forms—be it physical, verbal, online, in everyday life, or in both private and public settings. Therefore, it is crucial to come together, transcending our differences, across generations and borders, to ensure mutual protection.
On Saturday, May 17, the Brussels Pride March will fill the streets of the city center, while the Pride Village will host various associations. LGBTQIA+ artists and their allies will perform on multiple stages set up throughout the capital. Approximately one hundred partners, associations, and artists will collaborate to create a significant and memorable event.
This year, the Rainbow Village and its LGBTQIA+ venues, situated in the Saint-Jacques neighborhood at the heart of the city, will once again partner with the event, enlivening the iconic streets throughout the weekend. Brussels Pride is an inclusive celebration open to all. To ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all participants, a Safer Zone will be established. This area will provide a space for individuals to take a break, receive medical assistance if necessary, and report any inappropriate or offensive behavior related to their gender and/or identity.
Brussels Pride extends beyond May 17, commencing ten days earlier in the capital. The festivities will begin on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, with the launch of Brussels Pride Week, which will emphasize the recognition of Brussels Pride as part of the intangible heritage of the Brussels Capital Region. Throughout the week, RainbowHouse – the Brussels federation of LGBTQIA+ associations – along with various activist and artistic collectives, will take over Grands Carmes and other venues to present a rich and diverse program of events. On Thursday, May 15, the Mini-Pride will take place, a festive parade that will traverse the streets of the Saint-Jacques district, officially initiating the weekend celebrations. This parade will also pay homage to the iconic Manneken-Pis, who will don a specially designed costume for the occasion.
The cultural sector will actively engage in the event, showcasing LGBTQIA+ artists and initiatives in partnership with Brussels Pride. Additionally, throughout Pride Week and during Brussels Pride, various buildings in the Brussels-Capital Region will be illuminated and adorned with the colors of the rainbow flag. Brussels Pride transcends mere celebration of diversity; it serves as a powerful call for inclusion and equality. Beyond its celebratory nature, Brussels Pride is increasingly vital as a platform to champion the rights and aspirations of the LGBTQIA+ community, while also revitalizing political discourse surrounding these critical matters.
