Held across 23 days in May, WorldPride DC 2025 united members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies from around the globe in a vibrant celebration marking the 50th anniversary of Pride in the nation’s capital. Though attendance and economic outcomes fell below initial projections, the event still contributed $310.7 million to the local economy through spending on lodging, dining, retail, entertainment, and tax revenue. Approximately 1.2 million attendees participated in over 400 events spanning all eight wards of Washington, D.C. n nOrganizers had anticipated an economic impact of $787 million, but various challenges—including political uncertainty and safety concerns—led to reduced corporate sponsorship and lower turnout. Metro ridership rose nearly 12% during the final weekend, reaching 1.27 million trips, signaling strong public engagement. n nDespite a 50% drop in funding, the Capital Pride Alliance distributed $1.4 million in community grants. Executive Director Ryan Bos emphasized that persistent external pressures, including calls for boycotts and event cancellations, affected financial backing. Nevertheless, the celebration advanced visibility and solidarity. n nAshley Smith, Board President of the Capital Pride Alliance, described the city as transformed into a “living rainbow” filled with music, protest, dance, and joy. City officials and local businesses affirmed that the gathering significantly boosted tourism and highlighted D.C.’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. n nThe event underscored both the resilience of the LGBTQ+ movement and the economic value of large-scale cultural festivals, even amid adversity.\n\n— News Original —\nWorldPride DC 2025 brought color, celebration and major economic boost\nIt was an almost monthlong celebration that brought members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies from around the world to D.C. in May. While the final turnout fell short of what organizers had hoped, WorldPride 2025 still delivered a major economic boost to the region, according to a newly released impact report. n nThe event ran for 23 days, featuring more than 400 events across all eight wards of the city. In total, 1.2 million people attended, bringing a wave of spending to hotels, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. n nOrganizers had projected a $787 million economic impact. The final tally came in at $310.7 million, driven by lodging, dining, retail, entertainment and tax revenue. Metro ridership surged nearly 12% during the final weekend, with 1.27 million riders. n n“The city became a living rainbow — alive with music, protest, dancing and joy. From our LGBTQ+ family to our friends and allies, we stood side by side, declaring that our movement is unstoppable,” Capital Pride Alliance Board President Ashley Smith said. n nBut the celebration wasn’t without challenges. Safety concerns and political uncertainty led some potential attendees to stay home and at least one confirmed sponsor to withdraw support. n nCapital Pride Alliance Executive Director Ryan Bos said the team knew the outcome of the 2024 presidential election would shape what the event would ultimately become. n n“The relentless attacks left so many of us searching for hope amid the calls to cancel, to boycott, to turn away from the work we had begun. All of these factors led to a significant reduction in financial support, from corporate pullback to a reallocation of city funds. Despite a 50% reduction in funds, WorldPride DC not only successfully proceeded, but we managed to award $1.4 million in grants to the community,” Bos said in the report. n nDespite falling short of projections, city officials and local businesses said the event still brought a meaningful boost to tourism and visibility for D.C.’s LGBTQ+ community. n nWorldPride 2025 marked the 50th anniversary of Pride in D.C., and organizers said the event showcased the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, diverse communities and enduring commitment to equality. n nGet breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here. n n© 2025 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.