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Every autumn the streets of Taipei transform into a sea of rainbow flags as Taiwan’s capital hosts one of Asia’s biggest queer celebrations. The Taiwan lgbtq+Q+ Pride Parade has grown exponentially since it first began in 2003 as a modest march of a few hundred activists. Taiwan’s reputation as a leader in lgbtq+Q+ rights in Asia – it became the first country in the region to introduce marriage equality in 2019 – means its national pride parade now attracts tens of thousands of visitors from around the world. It is much more than a day of marching; it is a week‑long festival of parties, art, film, and community events that showcases the creativity and resilience of Taiwan’s queer communities.

The 2025 edition of Taiwan Pride will run from Friday 24 October to Sunday 26 October, with the main parade expected to take place on Saturday 25 October. The event traditionally starts with an opening ceremony and street fair around Taipei City Hall on Friday afternoon where local organisations and charities set up booths, performers take to the stage and vendors dish up street food. Saturday morning brings workshops and forums on activism, health, and culture before people gather at City Hall in the early afternoon to begin the march. In recent years there have been two parallel routes to ensure crowds can spread out; both wind through the city’s main boulevards and end on Ketagalan Boulevard in front of the Presidential Office. This large square becomes a party zone filled with live bands, DJs, dancers and speeches. Sunday tends to be more relaxed with brunches, art markets, and chill‑out events across the city.

While exact details for 2025 are still emerging, the parade is likely to build on the success of the 2024 “Stand with Diversity” theme, encouraging participants to reflect on intersectionality and the varied experiences of queer people. Expect a vibrant mix of community groups, drag queens, leather contingents, parents, corporate floats and international visitors weaving through Taipei’s modern skyline. Many travelers combine the parade with the Taipei Rainbow Festival, an outdoor concert held the same weekend in the Xinyi District featuring pop stars and DJs. Bars and clubs around Red House in Ximending and other parts of the city host themed parties that run late into the night.

Visitors should plan ahead as the weekend can be very busy. Hotels near Ximending and the city centre book up quickly, so early reservations are recommended. Taipei’s metro system is the easiest way to navigate; the City Hall and Taipei Main Station stops are both near parade activities. October weather in Taipei is warm but can be humid, so comfortable shoes, sunscreen and water are essentials. Many attendees dress up in costumes or national dress to express themselves; however there is no dress code and everyone is welcome.

Beyond the parade itself there is much to explore in Taiwan. Culture lovers can wander through night markets tasting bubble tea and stinky tofu, visit temples like Longshan or Confucius Temple, or hike in nearby Yangmingshan National Park for city views. The city’s museum scene, including the Museum of Contemporary Art and the National Palace Museum, offers insight into Taiwan’s past and present. If time allows, a high‑speed train can take you to other parts of the island, such as Tainan’s historic streets or Kaohsiung’s harbour.

Taiwan Pride remains a testament to the island’s ongoing commitment to human rights and openness. Whether you are marching for the first time or have been attending for years, the 2025 edition promises a welcoming and lively atmosphere that celebrates love and self‑expression in all its forms. Visitors are encouraged to follow updates on the official Taiwan Pride website closer to the event for precise timings, route information, and any health and safety guidelines.

Official Website: https://taiwanpride.lgbtq+

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