Thousands gather in Denmark and Sweden for WorldPride 2021

Despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, the 2021 WorldPride and EuroGames have gotten underway in the cities of Copenhagen and Malmö.

Dubbed the world’s most significant LGBTI+ event of the year, the organisers are hosting more than 1,000 events spanning sport, human rights, culture and Pride over 11 days.

With rainbow flags and decorations appearing across the two cities, thousands of international visitors will join Danes and Swedes in a global celebration of equality and diversity. According to the organisers, all events, including seven parades and marches, are taking place within the pandemic guidelines and restrictions.

“The immense pride we feel at being honoured to host the seventh WorldPride is only strengthened by the enormous challenge of organising this event in the midst of a pandemic that has affected so many people across the world,” said Lars Henriksen, Chair of Copenhagen Pride which holds the licence for WorldPride, in a statement.

My hometown #Copenhagen is dressed in #rainbow colours 🌈 and getting ready for the imperative and spectacular #WorldPride and #EuroGames It is a wonderful sight to behold 😁💥🤛A celebration also of the brave #SouthAfrican #LGBTIQ+ activists 🇿🇦✊#YouAreIncluded @CPH2021 pic.twitter.com/IM7Rt5SNf0

— Amb. Tobias Elling Rehfeld (@DKAMBinSA) August 13, 2021

HRH The Crown Princess of Denmark, as Patron of Copenhagen 2021, will speak at several events including the Human Rights Conference where up to 1,000 activists and policymakers will discuss LGBTI+ equality and goals for the next decade.

More than 250 scholarship recipients will attend from countries where LGBTI+ equality remains elusive. Speakers at the Conference will include the President of Iceland, Deputy Prime Minister of Belgium, and the UN High Commissioners for Refugees and Human Rights and many other political and civil society leaders.

Two thousand athletes from more than 50 countries are expected to compete in EuroGames, the LGBTI+ multi-sport event which this year includes tournaments in 22 sports.

A series concerts are being hosted featuring international artists such as Todrick Hall and Princess Nokia alongside Danish and Swedish artists including Freja Kirk, Theo X, Ängie and AQUA.

The Fluid Festival will celebrate women, genderqueer and non-binary people with a blend of performances, speeches, talks, and space to relax and socialise. There will also be spaces for young LGBTI+ people, children and their families.

Cultural institutions have also organised hundreds of events including performances, films, debates and immersive activities.

“We are determined, and we are optimistic, that we will give hope for the future for LGBTI+ people everywhere, ensuring that these eleven days will have an impact for many years ahead,” said Henriksen.

A 30-metre section of a Rainbow Flag created by Gilbert Baker for the 25th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising will be suspended in Copenhagen City Hall. Open every day between 900-1600, except Sunday. #WorldPride #YouAreIncluded #EuroGameshttps://t.co/MM3lgDzdp3

— Copenhagen 2021: WorldPride & EuroGames (@CPH2021) August 12, 2021