Looking Back on 50 Years of Capital Pride Ahead of World Pride Music Festival 2025

World Pride Music Festival 2025 in Washington, DC commemorates the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride with the largest event held to date in the nation’s capital.

Half a century ago, the first Pride march in Washington, DC was not a parade with floats or fanfare, but a street festival with quiet defiance. On June 22, 1975, a small number of queer Washingtonians treaded through a city that barely acknowledged their presence.

There were no corporate sponsors, glittering stages, or grand marshals — just the fierce conviction that visibility was its own power. Amidst marbled monuments and traditional hierarchy, this marked the very first officially recognized Pride celebration in DC, held just six years after the Stonewall Uprising in New York City that inspired a growing national LGBTQ+ movement. That significant day has etched a fragile yet instrumental space for the queers to be seen and heard.

In the US, Washington, DC represents the face of American power. And it’s impossible to ignore that Pride has always carried a special weight in the city. With rising political pushback against gay rights and increasing legislative backlash, hosting the festival right at the heart of the nation’s capital is more than just a celebration, but a call to mind that Pride is still very much a protest. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, returning to DC is symbolic, as it represents a homecoming to where the movement first found its voice.

Today, Washington, DC is no longer the backdrop of queer history. What began in 1975 as a modest gathering has grown into a sprawling celebration of resilience, joy, and unity. Now, 50 years on, that legacy will be honored in a milestone event that will unite the global LGBTQ+ community for an unprecedented celebration. Come June 6-7, World Pride Music Festival will take over the RFK Festival Grounds for a momentous weekend of music, culture, and pride — the largest event of its kind ever held in Washington, DC.

More than a festival, this event honors half a century of progress and reflects just how far the political activism and social movements have advanced. Produced by Jake Resnicow of Dreamland, in partnership with Capital Pride and Club Glow, the festival will feature dazzling performances across three immersive stages, headlined by global superstar Jennifer Lopez and pop hitmaker Troye Sivan.

Some of the biggest names in electronic music will accompany them. Zedd, SOFI TUKKER, Galantis, Purple Disco Machine, Dombresky presents Disco Dom, LP Giobbi, Hayla, and others will also take the stage to unite the community through music while honoring all the trailblazers who have made this moment possible.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic 50th Capital Pride celebration! Head over to World Pride Festival’s official website and grab your tickets now!

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