Cape Town to be the very first African city to host WorldPride
Cape Town is set to make history as the very first African city to roll out the pink carpet for WorldPride in 2028.
WorldPride to come to Cape Town
Cape Town Tourism recently announced that Cape Town has won the bid for WorldPride 2028. Over the next few years, the city will work tirelessly to prepare for this milestone event, ready to welcome the global LGBTIQ+ community and allies with open arms.
Known for its natural beauty and cultural richness, Cape Town has long stood as a top LGBTQ+ travel destination, promoting human rights and acceptance. The city now looks forward to amplifying this legacy through WorldPride 2028.
Cape Town Tourism’s CEO, Enver Duminy, expressed the city’s enthusiasm and readiness for WorldPride 2028:
“Cape Town is deeply honoured to host WorldPride 2028. Our city embodies the spirit of diversity, inclusivity, and the belief that love transcends all boundaries. This event is more than a celebration; it is a statement of solidarity and inclusion for LGBTQ+ individuals across Africa and the globe. We look forward to sharing Cape Town’s beauty, hospitality, and warm embrace with the world.” Duminy said.
A close win
The race to host WorldPride 2028 was close, with two finalists vying for the privilege: Cape Town Pride in South Africa and Guadalajara Pride in Mexico. Of the 500 eligible voters, 198 cast their ballots, with Cape Town Pride receiving 53% of the votes, Guadalajara Pride earning 44%, and 3% choosing to abstain.
This achievement underscores the strength and passion of Cape Town’s LGBTQ+ community, which is ready to make history.
Alderman James Vos, the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth, said: “The hosting of WorldPride reaffirms Cape Town’s reputation as one of the LGBTQ+ travel capitals of the world. The City looks forward to welcoming travellers from all across the globe to celebrate the joyous unity of diversity.”
Michael Gladwin, Worldpride Cape Town Bid Lead, agreed and added: “I am excited for this opportunity to change the narratives and perspectives around LGBTI+ in Africa and we aim to build a legacy beyond WorldPride 2028, acknowledging and furthering our human rights on the continent and beyond.”
WorldPride made its debut in Rome in 2000. The next event is set for Washington, D.C., from May 23 to June 8, 2025, and is anticipated to attract over 3 million participants.
InterPride describes WorldPride as an event dedicated to raising global awareness and visibility for LGBTIQ+ issues. The event features parades, festivals, and various activities, including a human rights conference.