Bangkok Pride Parade 2024: Your Essential Guide to Preparing

Bangkok is all set to celebrate Pride Month in full swing, with rainbow-themed hoardings and visually stunning parade floats transforming the city into a vivid celebration of colors, performing arts, and joy.

Thailand’s most vibrant celebration, the Bangkok Pride Parade 2024, is all geared up for a colorful celebration. It’s not just a parade, but also a sign of hope and unity for the LGBTQIA+ community, raising awareness on diversity and inclusion while striving for equality and rights.

The Bangkok Pride 2024 celebrations will kick off from May 31 to June 4 and will be held at various venues in Bangkok. This year's theme, "Celebration of Love," is in celebration of Thailand's milestone in recognizing the equal marriage bill and becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage.

Whether you're part of the LGBTQIA+ community or a supporter, you're welcome to be yourself in this inclusive environment. It’s an unforgettable experience to witness the parade painting the town rainbow. Here’s how you can prepare for the massive festival happening in town and activities you can participate in.

The Parade

The Bangkok Pride Parade will be held on June 1, where the LGBTQIA+ community will gather together to celebrate. The parade will start from the Suphachalasi National Stadium and head towards Ratchaprasong Intersection (Rama 1 Road). The parade consists of 5 main processions translating to 5 definitions of love where participants can choose to express and present their vision of what love is all about.

 For the general public, admission is free and registration is not required. If you’re planning to participate in activities or present special issues in the procession with a group of 10 people or more, then make sure to apply via bangkokpride.org. 

What to Prepare for Pride Parade

Stay Hydrated: It’s scorching hot in Bangkok and you’re bound to feel dehydrated with the heat and humidity level. So, make sure you carry electrolytes, some snacks, and plenty of water to stay hydrated and energized. Grab one of those mini portable fans or facial mist to keep you cool.

Bring Sunscreen: A small bottle of sunscreen will work wonders to protect you from harmful UV rays. Protect yourself from sun-parched skin by applying before you leave your place and then reapplying after a few hours. 

Wear comfortable clothing: While you might want to go all out with your rainbow-inspired wardrobe, it would be ideal to opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton or polyester to avoid sweat. Bring an extra pair of clothes just in case and wear comfortable footwear as you will have to walk a lot. A pair of shades, a cap or hat would be perfect to protect you from the sun!

Carry an umbrella: The rainy season has begun! Especially in June, the weather is pretty unpredictable. So do grab a folded umbrella so you can easily carry it in your tote bag. 

Wear a face mask: Given the current air quality and PM 2.5, consider wearing a facemask to be safe from pollution. Also, let’s not forget that COVID-19 isn’t exactly over yet so better to be safe than sorry.

Powerbank: If our smartphones run out of battery, there’s always a sense of panic and stress. Whether it’s to take photos and videos, do a live video, use Google Maps for directions, or make payments via QR code, our smartphones are essential! Charge your phone when needed with a fully charged power bank. 

Attend Forums

After achieving marriage equality, what's next for Thailand? If you've been pondering this and want to voice your thoughts or simply learn more, then join the Bangkok Pride Forum. Share your opinions and vision, and listen to expert speakers as they discuss their strategies at these two events. 

Lido Connect: You can participate in the Bangkok Pride Forum which is a series of seminars on topics related to same-sex marriage, human rights, and education. 

When: May 31-June 2

SCB X Next Tech at Siam Paragon: A sister forum will be held to discuss topics such as economic, health care, technological, and environmental impacts of the equal marriage bill.  As there are limited seats, register at the Bangkok Pride page to secure your spot.

When: May 31- June 4

Link to registration: https://bangkokpride.org/

Drag Bangkok Festival 2024: 

You’re about to witness the biggest drag show in Bangkok at Parc Paragon, Siam Paragon. This Drag Bangkok concert is bringing together over 500 drag artists from different nationalities, cultural backgrounds, and generations, reinforcing the country’s role as a hub for LGBTQIA+ culture. Also, watch 8 queens from 4 different countries compete for the DRAG MVP title, along with entertaining performances and fashion shows.

When: May 31 - June 3 

Prism Pride

Head over to Emsphere at Em District to witness Bangkok transforming into a haven of rainbow at Prism Pride. Sway the night away to the circuit and EDM music by DJs and exciting international performances. 

When: June 1-2

Pride Cruise Bangkok

Any celebration is incomplete without a cruise party! From grooving to the beats of DJs playing pop, disco, and circuit music, to being wowed by the drag shows, step into this cruise for a dynamic ride. Flaunt your dancing skills at their friendly dance competitions or enjoy your own little concert with karaoke. 

When: June 15 (Check-in: 6 m., Departure 7m., Return 11p.m.)

Where: Wat Worachanyawas (Charoen Krung Soi 72) 

Grab your tickets here.