Proud and loud? Time to join the crowd

Copenhagen Pride – The city has been painted with all the colours of the rainbow in preparation for Copenhagen Pride. Music, fashion shows, stand-up comedy, parades and a pulsating final show at Rådhuspladsen – it promises to be one hell of a week.

Copenhagen Pride, a non-profit volunteer organisation that aims to higher the profile of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights within the community, have been holding its yearly summer festival in Copenhagen since 1996, and the city-wide celebration is open to all and free of charge.

Whether you want to relax with a beer and some mellow tunes, be a judge in a beauty contest, take part in a panel debate or try new and exciting cuisine, there’s something for everyone at this year’s Pride Week. Below are just some of the events that will be taking place when Copenhagen celebrates the right to love!

Various locations across Cph K; ends 19 Aug; www.copenhagenpride.dk

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while others prefer pink scooters. (Photo:Magnus Arrevad)Pride Parade – This is the biggest and most iconic event during Copenhagen Pride week. The parade kicks off at Fredriksberg Rådhus, and makes its way along the 4km route down Vesterbrogade, ending up at Rådhuspladsen, where the big show will commence. Look out for Enhedslisten, DSB, Ladies of Disney, British Airways and Microsoft who are all set to walk in the parade, along with dozens of other organisations.

FredriksbergRådhus, Fredriksberg, Sat Aug 18, 13:00

The Pride Show – Though the performances begin at 4pm, the makeshift bars will already be open at 12, with a DJ warm-up set from 1:30pm.  This year the Pride Show boasts an impressive line-up with performances by Sound, George Michael Jam, and Diva Dean amongst others. The DJs include Jean von Baden, Flip and Rosa. Definitely don’t miss DragQueens.dk who will be covering hits from Abba and the Eurovision Song Contest!

Rådhuspladsen, Cph V, Sat Aug 18, 16:00

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And some shows solidarity by wearing orientation on their T-shirts. (Photo:Christian Lilendahl)Mr. Gay.dk 2012 Final – Dig out your vuvuzelas and make some noise to help judge the Mr Gay pageant, as ten of Denmark’s finest gay or bisexual men compete in three categories – beachwear, formal wear and talent – for the title of Mr Gay 2012.

Rådhuspladsen, Cph V, Thu (Aug 16) 18:00

Pride Square – At the time of its birth, Pride Square, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, was called Pride Village and was a sanctuary for debates, skits and food stalls. However, over the past few years, Pride Square has become the central hub for Pride Week’s activities, hosting musical performances, art exhibitions, and a vast array of events.

Rådhuspladsen, Cph V; Thu-Fri 12:00-22:30, Sat 11:00-22:00