London Pride Parade Draws Over 35,000 Marchers as Activists Warn of Trans Rights Threats

More than 35,000 participants joined the London Pride parade, part of a larger celebration expected to attract over one million people to the capital. The procession followed a route from Hyde Park Corner through Piccadilly Circus to Whitehall, passing landmarks such as Trafalgar Square where major performances were scheduled, including Grammy‑nominated singer MNEK.

Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan led the march, and activists such as Peter Tatchell and Julian Hows used the platform to highlight concerns about trans‑rights rollbacks and bans on gay footballers in 11 World Cup‑participating nations. The Metropolitan Police announced a "no tolerance of hate crime" stance and a heavy visible presence to safeguard the crowds.

Corporate floats from Lidl, Tesco and IKEA, as well as local football clubs, featured along the route. Organisers urged attendees to stay hydrated, wear sun protection and look after one another in the heat, which was forecast to reach 28 °C.