Soweto Pride returns this September for its 22nd anniversary, bringing LGBTQIA+ communities, allies and supporters together for two days of visibility, resistance, remembrance and queer joy.
Hosted by the Forum for the Empowerment of Women (FEW), this year’s main Soweto Pride commemoration takes place across two days on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 September under the theme “iSango lenkululeko – Our Heritage”.
In keeping with South Africa’s Heritage Month theme, organisers are inviting attendees to show up proudly in their heritage – whether through traditional attire, cultural expression or simply celebrating the roots and identities that make the LGBTQIA+ community so diverse.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Soweto Pride 2026 weekend.
Friday 25 September: Soweto Pride March
The Soweto Pride March takes place on Friday 25 September, starting at 12:00 from KwaLichaba Chesanyama on Vilakazi Street in Soweto.
More than simply a celebration of LGBTQIA+ visibility, the march will call for safer communities, greater social cohesion, access to justice and the meaningful implementation of the constitutional rights guaranteed to LGBTQIA+ people.
It will also provide a space to remember and honour members of the community who have lost their lives to hate crimes.
Following the march, participants will return for speeches and entertainment.
Attendance is free, but participants must book a free ticket online through Quicket to access the KwaLichaba Chesanyama venue.
Saturday 26 September: Queer Joy Celebration
The festivities continue on Saturday 26 September with the Queer Joy Celebration, taking place from 10:00 to 18:00 at KwaLichaba Chesa Nyama in Orlando West, Soweto.
The celebration will bring LGBTQIA+ people, families, allies and supporters together for a day centred on music, culture, entrepreneurship and community.
Organisers have assembled a packed entertainment line-up featuring Teatats, DJ Yoncé, Lelowhatsgood, Umzulu Phaqa, AN.D, DJ Biskit, Thoknique, Lotion, Miso Prodigy and DJ Puggy.
Pretty Ñdie the DJ and Chicken (KwaNjomane) will serve as MCs for the celebration.
Entry is once again free, but attendees need to book their tickets online through Quicket.
Soweto Pride 2026 at a Glance
Soweto Pride March
Date: Friday 25 September 2026
Time: From 12:00
Venue: KwaLichaba Chesanyama, Vilakazi Street, Soweto
Entry: Free – advance booking through Quicket required
Programme: Pride march followed by speeches and entertainment
Queer Joy Celebration
Date: Saturday 26 September 2026
Time: 10:00–18:00
Venue: KwaLichaba Chesa Nyama, Orlando West, Soweto
Entry: Free – advance booking through Quicket required
Featuring: Teatats, DJ Yoncé, Lelowhatsgood, Umzulu Phaqa, AN.D, DJ Biskit, Thoknique, Lotion, Miso Prodigy and DJ Puggy
MCs: Pretty Ñdie the DJ and Chicken (KwaNjomane)
