Cape Town Pride returns in 2025 with a three‑week festival running from 6 February to 2 March. The celebration is more than just a parade – it’s a series of cultural happenings that shine a light on the vibrant lgbtq+Q+ communities of South Africa. Visitors from across the country and around the world descend on the Mother City to march, dance, hike, learn and share in a spirit of solidarity. With summer in full swing, Cape Town’s parks, beaches and streets become the backdrop for gatherings that mix celebration with activism. The 2025 schedule offers something for every taste. Early highlights include Pride’s Got Talent on 13 February, where drag queens, singers and comedians compete for a spot on the main stage at Mardi Gras. The following night the talk show “Unhinged” takes over Outlore Base with a Valentine’s Day edition of queer dating and live comedy. On 15 February, hikers meet at Constantia Nek for a morning walk in the forests of Table Mountain, while that evening the Mr & Miss Cape Town Pride pageant crowns new royalty at the Joseph Stone Auditorium. Throughout the festival there are book readings, film screenings, queer yoga sessions, open‑mic nights and workshops on everything from faith and sexuality to mental health. These events invite the wider community to participate and provide space for quieter reflection amid the partying. As the month unfolds the energy builds toward the big weekend. The Pride Parade and Mardi Gras day draw thousands of marchers and spectators. Floats decorated in rainbows travel through the city centre, with community organisations, corporate allies and activist groups showing their colours. The march ends at Green Point, where a massive open‑air party continues into the night with live music, drag performances and food stalls. Many attendees carry posters calling for equal rights and remembrance of those lost to violence and HIV/AIDS, reminding everyone that Pride is as much a protest as it is a party. Planning ahead makes the experience smoother. Accommodation in De Waterkant and the City Bowl fills quickly, so booking early is recommended. February can be hot and windy; sunscreen, hats and comfortable shoes are essential for the parade and hikes. Public transport links the main venues, but ride‑share apps are also widely available. Visitors often add extra days to explore the Winelands, the peninsula’s beaches or climb Table Mountain. It’s also worth sampling local cuisine and supporting queer‑owned businesses during your stay. Cape Town Pride 2025 celebrates the diversity of Africa’s lgbtq+Q+ community while calling attention to ongoing struggles for equality and safety. Organisers have adopted the slogan “Own Your Truth” to encourage participants to live authentically. With its mix of cultural events, activism and sheer joy, the festival offers a unique window into life in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Official website: https://cptpride.org

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