Johannesburg Pride reveals new venue for 2023

The organisers of Africa’s oldest LGBTIQ+ Pride event have announced a new home for the 2023 edition of Johannesburg Pride – and it’s a well-known landmark in the city.

They’ve chosen an iconic location for this year’s festivities: The Wanderers Cricket Stadium, located along Corlett Drive just south of Sandton in Illovo.

This stadium, built in 1956, boasts a rich history, having hosted a Cricket World Cup and major world-record-breaking international cricket matches. But it’s not just the history that makes this venue special; it’s the sense of community, unity, and excellence it embodies.

In 2013, a small demonstration was held at the stadium during a cricket Test match between South Africa and India to protest India’s Supreme Court restoring a law banning gay sex. (It was only in 2018 that the Indian Supreme Court decriminalised consensual adult homosexuality.)

A Bold Move to Wanderers Stadium

Johannesburg Pride has been hosted in central Sandton in recent years, with the 2022 outing making headlines after the US government warned of an imminent terror threat in the area on the same day as Pride. Thankfully, the event went ahead without incident.

In a recent Facebook post, the organisers expressed their excitement about the move to Wanderers Stadium, calling it a “game-changer.”

They emphasised that the venue symbolises their commitment to excellence, unity, and community. “It’s not just a stadium; it’s where dreams ignite, history is made, and our pride soars to new heights,” they said.

Interestingly, this won’t be the first time Johannesburg Pride has graced the Wanderers grounds. In 2015, an estimated 17,500 people gathered at field alongside the stadium to celebrate Pride. Now, in 2023, Johannesburg Pride returns to this location with even more energy and enthusiasm.

Johannesburg Pride 2023: “The Era of Elevation & Celebration”

Mark your calendars because Johannesburg Pride 2023 is set to take place on October 28, starting at 10:00. One of the highlights of the event, the Pride Parade, will kick off at 14:00.

This year’s theme, “the era of elevation & celebration,” promises a vibrant and inclusive Pride event that you won’t want to miss.

Here’s a sneak peek of what awaits you at Johannesburg Pride 2023:

Gates open at 10: Get ready for a day filled with celebration.

Pride Parade: Join the rainbow procession at 14:00.

Opening Ceremony: Enjoy star-studded performances, heartfelt speeches, the lighting of the Pride Torch, and a moment of silence.

Music Extravaganza: Groove to live performances featuring top LGBTQ+ and ally artists.

LGBTQ+ Resources: Discover support, education, and advocacy organisations sharing valuable insights on stage.

Pride Village: Explore food stalls, craft markets, and community hubs.

Photo Booths: Capture unforgettable moments with friends and loved ones.

For more information, visit the Pride of Africa website.