150,000 marched in the biggest Pride parade in the Middle East

Tel Aviv commemorated the 25th anniversary of its renowned Pride Parade, which is considered the largest Pride event in the Middle East. The festivities took place along the iconic Tel Aviv coastline, offering a picturesque setting for the grand celebration. The Pride Parade returned to the beautiful Tel Aviv Promenade, with the event scheduled during the afternoon hours, allowing participants to relish the refreshing sea breeze and witness the breathtaking sunset.

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This year, Tel Aviv Global & Tourism showcased a particularly vibrant and mesmerizing pride float in collaboration with the leading drag queen, Erika Histerika Genderika, representing the next generation of drag. Erika brought her unique style, charisma, and performances to the parade, captivating the audience with her remarkable talent and artistic expression.

The parade kicked off at Shalag St. and proceeded towards Daniel St. It featured a vibrant display of nine trucks representing prominent party lines in Tel Aviv and various LGBTQ+ community organizations. Tel Aviv-Yafo’s Mayor Ron Huldai stated “The Pride weekend started with a clear message for everyone: We are all equal, we are all human, and we all deserve to love without fear, whoever we want. Happy Pride to all. Enjoy!” The dazzling trucks adorned with colorful decorations, manned by talented dancers and performers from the LGBTQ+ community, infused the atmosphere with electrifying energy.

As the engines roared to life and the music filled the air, an exuberant crowd began its march. The procession symbolized the ongoing struggle for equal rights for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Tel Aviv hosted its renowned AFTER PRIDE PARTY at Ganne Yehushua Park. This six-hour extravaganza showcased artists and DJs, such as Netta Barzilai, the Eurovision winner, alongside Noa Tishby, Tamir Greenberg, Ivri Lider, DJ Yinon Yahel, and many other talented artists, on the largest platform to ever be constructed in the park.

The Tel Aviv Pride Parade has become a cherished tradition since its inception in 1998. Each year, hundreds of thousands of residents and LGBTQ+ community members proudly march alongside tens of thousands of visitors and families hailing from various corners of the world. Tel Aviv stands as a warm and inclusive home for all its communities, taking immense pride in its pioneering role in championing LGBTQ+ rights and serving as an inspiration on a global scale.

All photos provided by Tel Aviv Global & Tourism