Get ready for an explosion of colour, energy, and pride as Johannesburg Pride returns for its 35th year! This year’s theme, Celebrate Yourself, is all about embracing authenticity and individuality. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, October 26, 2024, is set to be an unforgettable day.
Pride of Africa, as Johannesburg Pride is known, isn’t just any parade—it’s a human rights movement. Since its inception in 1990, it has grown into one of the most significant Pride events globally, standing shoulder to shoulder with celebrations in New York, San Francisco, London, and Amsterdam. This year, the energy, love, and unity of Pride come to Sandton Central, and trust us, you won’t want to miss a second of it!
What to Expect on Pride Day
The day kicks off with a festival vibe at Sandton Pride Village (corner of Maude and West Streets), where gates open at 10 AM. From here, it’s a full day of entertainment, food, and community activities designed to bring people together. You’ll find stalls set up by community organisations, interest groups, and vendors selling everything from memorabilia to delicious treats.
The Parade Itself?
At 1 PM, the main event begins as the Johannesburg Pride Parade steps off from the assembly point at the Pride Village. The procession will make its way through the Sandton Central Business District, looping back to the Pride Village. Whether you’re marching or cheering from the sidelines, this is where the magic happens! Expect banners, placards, and a whole lot of love as the crowd, estimated to be around 10,000 strong, marches through the streets of Sandton.
Pride Village: The Heartbeat of the Day
The Pride Village is not just where the parade starts—it’s where the party happens! From 10 AM, there will be non-stop entertainment, with live performances, DJs, and food and drink stalls keeping the good vibes rolling all day long. Whether you’re looking to grab a drink, have a bite to eat, or enjoy some live music, the Village is where it’s at.
You’ll also find tons of activities that encourage engagement and interaction. Community organisations will be hosting stalls, and there will be spaces for people to share their stories, make connections, and celebrate their identities. It’s the perfect place to soak in the inclusive spirit of Pride.
Your Guide to the Best Spots in Sandton Central
If you’re looking for the best places to experience Johannesburg Pride, Sandton Central is the ideal spot. Here are our top picks:
1.Pride Village (Corner of Maude and West Streets)
This is where it all starts! Grab your friends and head here for the pre-parade entertainment and to soak up the festival atmosphere. From here, you can watch the parade kick off in style or grab a prime spot for when it returns.
2. Nelson Mandela Square
Looking for a chill spot to enjoy the day? Head over to Nelson Mandela Square, where you can take a break, grab a coffee, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Pride as the parade moves through Sandton
3. Sandton City Mall
Not far from the action, Sandton City Mall is a great spot to catch your breath, do some shopping, or grab a bite to eat before rejoining the festivities.
4. Sandton Pride Village Return Route (Corner of Freedman Drive and West Street)
Make sure you’re at the return route for some of the best parade views. This is where the energy truly peaks as the parade circles back to the Village. Get ready for cheers, music, and a sea of happy faces.
Why Johannesburg Pride Matters
Johannesburg Pride is about more than just a parade—it’s a vital platform for the LGBTQ+ community in Africa. It’s a day of visibility, advocacy, and celebration. It’s about fighting for equal rights, raising awareness, and creating a safe, inclusive space for people to be unapologetically themselves.
It’s also a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. The theme Celebrate Yourself speaks to the importance of embracing who you are, no matter your gender identity or sexual orientation. It’s a powerful reminder that Pride is about freedom, self-expression, and love.
Getting Involved
Want to participate? Join the parade! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Pride-goer, everyone is welcome. There’s no need to sign up in advance—just show up at the Sandton Pride Village between 10 AM and 1 PM, and you’re good to go.
If you’d prefer to spectate, Sandton Central is the perfect place to enjoy the parade and festivities from the sidelines. Grab a spot along the route and cheer on the participants as they march for equality, inclusion, and love.
Important Info
- Date: Saturday, 26 October 2024
- Time: Entertainment starts at 10 AM; the parade begins at 1 PM
- Parade Route: From the Sandton Pride Village (corner Maude and West Streets) through the Sandton CBD, returning to the Village via Freedman Drive and West Street.
- End Time: The event will officially wrap up by 10 PM, with stalls and activities closing at 9 PM.
Celebrate, Engage, and Be Proud!
Whether you’re attending to support the community, march in the parade, or simply soak up the atmosphere, Johannesburg Pride 2024 is a day to Celebrate Yourself. Join the thousands of people coming together in Sandton to share in the love, unity, and strength of the LGBTQ+ community. This is more than just a celebration—it’s a movement.
Make sure to mark October 26 on your calendar, and we’ll see you at Johannesburg Pride 2024!
For more information, visit Pride of Africa.
