Antwerp Pride Set for Record-Breaking Parade
Antwerp Pride is poised to host its largest edition yet, with 90 delegations scheduled to participate in Saturday’s parade, marking a significant milestone in the event’s 18-year history.
The Pride Parade, the festival’s centerpiece, will traverse various key locations in Antwerp, including the iconic Scheldt Quays. Proximus will provide live coverage, expanding its reach to French-speaking audiences. Last year, over 495,000 viewers from Flanders tuned into the broadcast.
The festivities commenced on Wednesday with an opening party at OLT Rivierenhof in Deurne, continuing through to Sunday. Noteworthy this year are participants such as the Federation of Funeral Directors, the sex worker advocacy group Eros Elite, the Walt Disney Company, Familiehulp, and Balkan Pride.
Increased Sponsorship Revenue
In addition to record participation numbers, Antwerp Pride sees a surge in financial backing, with sponsorship income rising by 20% compared to 2024, as confirmed to Gazet van Antwerpen. This increase is particularly significant given rising concerns regarding the political landscape, especially the pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump on businesses to diminish their diversity and inclusion initiatives.
“We were concerned at the beginning of Trump’s presidency,” said Geert Van Praet, chair of Antwerp Pride. “A lot of uncertainty permeated among our corporate partners as well.”
Despite these external pressures, Antwerp Pride has not only retained but expanded its network of sponsors. Global brands including Coca-Cola, Deloitte, MSC, and Ford are joined by local supporters such as Proximus, Maes, and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. Sponsorship now constitutes approximately 18% of the event’s funding.
“Had many companies withdrawn, the event’s future could have been jeopardized,” Van Praet noted. “While we may not match Amsterdam in terms of big-name sponsors, we are grateful for the longstanding partners who authentically support our commitment to diversity and inclusion.”
Antwerp Pride remains a potent symbol of cultural and social progress, demonstrating resilience in the face of political challenges, reports 24brussels.
