Pride march and closing event to take place in central Riga
On Saturday, as part of Riga Pride 2026, a march and closing event will be held in central Riga, calling for support for the LGBTQ community and equality.
This Saturday afternoon, central Riga will host the Riga Pride 2026 events, centered around a march and a closing concert. Organizers invite residents to join in support and be prepared for temporary traffic restrictions along the route.
Gathering of participants is scheduled from 12:00 at Esplanade, with the square opening as early as 11:00. The march will start at 13:00 and proceed along Kronvalda Boulevard, Krišjāņa Valdemāra Street, Stabu Street, and Brīvības Street, concluding back at Esplanade. There, a festive closing event will feature performances by various artists. The stage will host the Queer Choir, Niklāss, the Queer Folklore Group, Legzdiņa, Justs and Krisy, Zelma (VIŅA), Emīlija, as well as drag artists. The event will combine music, folklore, and stage art, celebrating the LGBTQ community and diversity in Latvia.
Kaspars Zālītis, co-chair of Riga Pride 2026, emphasized that the march "Road to Freedom" serves as a reminder that freedom is not self-evident. He noted that Latvia has changed over the past 20 years, but respect, equality, and belonging must be nurtured every day, inviting everyone who values these principles to join the march. Co-chair Kristīne Garina added that 20 years ago participants needed immense courage, but today only the desire to be present is required.
Traffic restrictions will be temporary during the march; organizers urge Riga residents and visitors to plan accordingly and account for changes in routes.
