Reykjavík Pride turns 26 this year, and while the glitter and rainbows are still here, the stakes have never felt higher. What began in 1999 as Hinsegin dagar, a modest celebration of queer life in Iceland, has grown into one of the country’s most powerful public events. Each August, nearly a quarter of the population shows up in support, transforming the streets into a joyful act of resistance.
But as anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric resurfaces across the globe, Reykjavík Pride’s mission is more vital than ever. This year’s theme, “Unity Creates Community,” is a pointed reminder that queer liberation has always depended on standing together, across identities, generations, and borders.
We sit down with Helga Haraldsdóttir, Chair of Reykjavík Pride, to talk about what’s new, what’s sacred, and why this year’s celebration carries global weight, from the joyful defiance of the Pride march to international voices speaking truth to backlash.
GayIceland: What is the theme this year and why did the committee choose it?
Helga: “This year’s theme is “Unity Creates Community”. We chose it because the queer liberation has always been built on solidarity.
Pride is a joyful refusal. It says: we are here, we are united, and we will not be pushed back into the shadows.
When we come together across identities, generations, and experiences; that’s when real community is created. In a time when division and exclusion are growing around the world, we want to emphasize connection. It means standing together, celebrating our differences, and refusing to leave anyone behind.”
GayIceland: Is there anything new people should look out for this year?
Helga: “Yes and we’re incredibly excited about it. This year, we’re honoured to welcome Lady Phyll to Reykjavík. She’s a powerful voice in the global LGBTQ+ movement Co-Founder and Chief Executive of UK Black Pride, and a long-time activist for racial, gender, and queer equality. Her presence at the Rainbow Conference will be a highlight and an opportunity for us to connect Reykjavík Pride with broader international struggles for justice and liberation.
We’ll also be joined by activists from Latvia, Bulgaria, and Budapest, who will speak about the challenges LGBTQ+ communities face in their countries. Their stories are urgent and moving and underline the importance of international solidarity, especially in times of political backlash.
And on a lighter note, Friday night’s queer comedy show is going to be huge: international comedy star Fortune Feimster will perform alongside Icelandic favourites Sóley Kristjánsdóttir and Sindri Sparkle. It’s going to be unforgettable.”
Even if every queer person in the world had equal rights, those rights are never guaranteed.
GayIceland: And what about the old Favourites?
Helga: “You know I have to mention the Pride march itself, it’s the heart of it all. It just keeps growing every year. At this point, around a quarter of the nation shows up to celebrate with us! We’ll have over 40 groups marching this year, some celebrating, some protesting, all expressing exactly what they need to say at that moment, both for themselves and their community. That’s what makes it so powerful.”
GayIceland: Why do you think Pride is so important right now?
Helga: “Because queer people are still fighting to be safe, to be seen, and to be free. Around the world and even here in Iceland, we’re seeing rising hate speech or political fear-mongering. Pride is a response to that.
It’s a joyful refusal. It says: we are here, we are united, and we will not be pushed back into the shadows.
And Pride will always be important. Even if every queer person in this world would have equal rights, those rights are never guaranteed. What we’ve gained can be taken away and history shows us that again and again. So we don’t just march to gain rights, we march to protect them, to defend our space, and to remind the world and ourselves that our existence is non-negotiable.”
At this point, around a quarter of the nation shows up to celebrate with us.
GayIceland: Is there anything else you want people to know?
Helga: “Reykjavík Pride is for everyone in the LGBTQ+ community whether you’re loud and proud, quietly questioning, or somewhere in between. You don’t have to fit any mould to belong. This festival is built by volunteers who care deeply about creating space for all of us, and we hope you’ll show up, not just as spectators, but as participants in the movement.
All of Reykjavik Prides event can be found on our website www.reykjavikpride.is”
Whether you’re loud and proud, quietly questioning, or somewhere in between – this festival is for you.
GayIceland: If people would like to get more involved in the organisation of Reykjavík Pride, what can they do?
Helga: “Help is always needed and greatly appreciated. The best way is to sign up as a volunteer through our website. Whether you have a few hours or want to get involved all year round, there’s a place for you. We especially encourage people from underrepresented parts of our community to step forward. Reykjavík Pride is only as strong as the people behind it, and we always want more voices at the table.”
