Frank Schellings, OA RHB, writes for the EU Political Report.
In May 2026, Pride celebrated its 30th anniversary. What once started as an activist march for equal rights has grown into one of the most important LGBTQIA+ events in Belgium and Europe. Under the powerful theme “When Times Get Darker, We Shine Brighter”, this anniversary edition aims not only to celebrate but also to send a strong social and political message: at a time when fundamental rights are increasingly under pressure around the world, the LGBTQIA+ community remains visible, united and resilient.
For three decades, Brussels Pride has brought together thousands of people in the heart of Brussels. More than just a celebration, Pride continues to stand for inclusion, diversity, safety, equality and human rights. While LGBTQIA+ rights are facing setbacks in several countries, Brussels Pride wants to reaffirm that visibility, solidarity and collective action remain essential.
The history of Brussels Pride is closely linked to the evolution of LGBTQIA+ rights in Belgium. Since the first Pride marches in Brussels, generations of activists, associations and volunteers have fought for anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, adoption rights and greater visibility for the entire community. Today, Pride remains a vital platform for activism, culture, dialogue and social awareness.
Pride continues to be necessary as long as people are discriminated against for who they are. It remains a moment of visibility, solidarity and collective strength.
This 30th anniversary edition extended far beyond one single day. Throughout, dozens of events and activities took place across the city. Concerts, exhibitions, performances, debates, workshops and community initiatives bring together associations, artists, activists and visitors around this year’s central message of hope and resilience.
Throughout Pride Week, iconic buildings across Brussels have been illuminated in rainbow colours, while the streets of the capital are decorated with more than 180 rainbow flags, transforming the city into a powerful symbol of diversity, inclusion and solidarity.
Brussels Pride also wants this anniversary edition to be a moment of reflection and connection, while creating space for culture, activism and dialogue.
On Wednesday, 13 May, a special colloquium took place at the Federal Parliament of Belgium dedicated to 30 years of Brussels Pride, LGBTQIA+ rights and the challenges facing the community today and tomorrow. Speakers from Belgium and across Europe discuss human rights, transgender and intersex rights, inclusion and the future of equality in Europe.
The event was followed by the opening of a special exhibition celebrating 30 years of Brussels Pride and an official reception.
Later that day, the inclusive Pride flag was raised at the Brussels Parliament, followed by speeches and a reception.
The evening continued with the large Pride Night at VIAGE, featuring performances, DJs and a show by Mademoiselle Cabaret.
On Thursday, 14 May, at the iconic Mini Pride, once again, Brussels was brought to life. The evening started with an official reception at Brussels City Hall on the Grand Place before the parade, accompanied by the official Brussels brass band Meyboom and the giant rainbow flag, which moved through the city centre towards Manneken Pis, which once again wears a special Pride costume for the occasion.
Over the years, the Mini Pride has become one of the most symbolic and accessible moments of Brussels Pride, bringing together associations, residents, visitors and activists in a warm and festive atmosphere.
Throughout Pride Week, numerous LGBTQIA+ associations, collectives and cultural organisations host activities all over Brussels. The programme includes concerts, DJ sets, artistic performances, exhibitions, workshops, film screenings, debates on diversity and inclusion, community gatherings, drag shows and guided rainbow tours exploring LGBTQIA+ history in Brussels. The full programme and all activities are available on the official Brussels Pride website.
Pride Week, therefore, represents a unique blend of activism, culture, creativity and solidarity at the heart of Europe.
The highlight of the celebrations culminated on Saturday, 16 May. Thousands of participants, associations, activists, artists, partners, and international delegations marched through the streets of Brussels in a vibrant, colourful demonstration of diversity and inclusion.
The Pride Village, located around the Mont des Arts, once again served as the beating heart of the event, welcoming associations, organisations and partners from across Belgium and beyond.
Special attention was also given this year to accessibility, wellbeing, inclusive spaces and family-friendly initiatives.
The theme “When Times Get Darker, We Shine Brighter” deliberately reflects the current international context. Across the world, human rights are increasingly challenged, while LGBTQIA+ communities continue to face discrimination, hate speech and growing polarisation.
Yet, above all, Brussels Pride wants to send a message of hope, strength and unity.
Especially in difficult times, we must continue to stand visible, support one another and show that diversity is a strength.
With this anniversary edition, Brussels Pride not only looks back on thirty years of history, but also looks ahead towards a future where everyone can live freely, safely and proudly as themselves.
