Taipei’s Taiwan Pride parade brought an estimated 170,000 people into the streets, with costumes, flags and a bright autumn afternoon giving the city a celebratory feel. Organisers said more than 180 groups signed up for the event, which urged people to listen across differences as debate over diversity and inclusion grows more polarised.

Essential Takeaways

  • A huge turnout: Organisers estimated that more than 170,000 people joined the parade.
  • A colourful crowd: Participants wore character costumes, carried rainbow flags and added Halloween touches.
  • A message of listening: This year’s theme called on people to hear one another and share the road.
  • Broad participation: More than 180 groups registered, including eight political parties.

Taipei Pride filled the streets with colour

A warm afternoon breeze offered welcome relief as Taipei’s annual Pride parade brought an estimated 170,000 people together. The crowd was a vivid mix of rainbow flags, playful costumes and Halloween decorations, with characters including Pikachu and Pikmin making appearances.

The parade set off at about 2.30pm, led by drag performers, before splitting into northern and southern routes. Both groups returned to the plaza in front of Taipei City Hall later in the afternoon, turning the march into a city-wide gathering rather than a single stretch of street.

This year’s message puts listening first

The event’s theme, “Hear together, walk together”, focused on listening across differences. Organisers said they wanted the parade to bring attention to gender issues amid increasingly polarised public debate and international opposition to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

That message gives the day a purpose beyond celebration. A lively costume can draw the eye, but the harder work is making space for people whose experiences and views may be unfamiliar.

Parties and public figures joined the march

More than 180 groups registered, including eight political parties from across Taiwan’s political spectrum. Their presence reflected Pride’s role as both a public celebration and a visible space for political engagement.

Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an and Democratic Progressive Party candidate Shen Po-yung also appeared at the event after a televised debate. Shen joined the march in a specially made outfit featuring the parade mascots and handed out rainbow-themed ribbons.

A parade for first-timers and regulars alike

For visitors, the event’s split routes and return to the City Hall plaza offer useful landmarks when planning where to watch or meet friends. With a large crowd expected, comfortable shoes, water and a clear meeting point are sensible basics, especially if you’re hoping to explore more than one part of the route.

The easy-going atmosphere and exuberant outfits make the parade welcoming to watch, even if you’re not marching. Still, its central invitation is simple: show up, pay attention and listen.

Taipei Pride showed how celebration and conversation can share the same street.

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