Cape Town is preparing for one of its most anticipated events of the year—the Cape Town Pride Parade and Mardi Gras 2025—which promises to light up the city on Saturday, 1 March, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Known for its spectacular blend of vibrant celebrations, diversity, and inclusivity, this year’s Pride festival is set to be the largest the city has ever seen, attracting LGBTQIA+ communities and allies from across the globe.
A global gathering for equality and celebration
With a theme of ‘Rainbow ID’, the 2025 Cape Town Pride Parade will unite Africa’s rainbow community, showcasing the diversity of the city and the people who call it home. Organizers are making sure that the event will be a standout moment, not only for local LGBTQIA+ individuals but also for international visitors eager to join in the revelry.
From 6 February, the Pride Festival will kick off with a series of exciting events leading up to the main parade. While more details on these events will be released soon, one highlight already confirmed is the Mr & Miss Cape Town Pride Pageant scheduled for 8 February at the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone. This glamorous event is set to celebrate some of the brightest stars in Cape Town’s LGBTQIA+ community.
A parade to remember
On 1 March, the streets of Cape Town will come alive with color as the Pride March takes center stage. As always, participation in the march will be free, encouraging people of all backgrounds to come together and express their support for equality, love, and respect. The parade will wind its way through the city, culminating in the highly anticipated Mardi Gras celebration at the Green Point Track.
Mardi Gras: Music, food, and fun for all
The Mardi Gras is where the festivities truly come to life. For those looking to immerse themselves in a full day of entertainment, live performances, DJs, and fabulous dancing, this is the place to be. The Pride Village Market will feature a range of LGBTQIA+ merchandise, food stalls, bars, and refreshment stations, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For families, there will be a designated children’s area, as well as chilled-out spaces for those who want to relax and soak up the atmosphere. The event is family-friendly but with a few important restrictions: no pets, cooler boxes, tents, or shisha pipes will be allowed on the premises.
Exclusive VIP experience
For those looking to elevate their experience, the VIP area promises luxury and comfort. This year, the VIP space has been relocated to a marquee directly in front of the main stage, offering unparalleled views of the performances. Limited to just 200 guests, the VIP area offers complimentary drinks and canapés, ensuring that guests are well taken care of. VIP ticket holders will also have exclusive access to private ablution facilities and will get the chance to meet main stage performers during special meet-and-greet sessions.
The clubhouse will be designated as a space for sponsors and media, making it a prime spot for networking and behind-the-scenes action.
Get your tickets before they’re gone!
If you’re planning to attend the Mardi Gras, it’s important to act fast. Tickets for the Mardi Gras are limited by the venue’s capacity, and with the buzz surrounding the event, they are expected to sell out quickly. Tickets are available on Quicket, with standard tickets priced at R50, which will increase to R65 after 15 January. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP tickets are available for R550 per person.
With such an exciting lineup and promise of unforgettable memories, the Cape Town Pride Parade and Mardi Gras 2025 is the perfect way to kick off the year with love, inclusivity, and unity. Whether you’re marching in the parade, shopping at the Pride Village Market, or soaking in the live performances at Mardi Gras, this event is not to be missed.
Also read:
Cape Town gears up to host Africa’s first WorldPride in 2028
Picture: Ronê Ferreira/Pexels
