Spain: World Gay Pride in Madrid June 23-July 3

Event

The World Gay Pride festival will take place in Madrid from June 23 to July 3, with the main events planned on Saturday, July 1. Chueca neighborhood, Plaza de Colón, Plaza de España, Puerta de Alcalá, and Puerta del Sol will be the center of celebrations. On July 1, the World Pride Parade will begin at the Barrio de Salamanca area at the Plaza de Colón. Severe transportation disruptions are expected in the area.

The Madrid metro was originally scheduled to remain open non-stop from 06:00 (local time) on Saturday, July 1, to 01:30 on Monday, July 3, in anticipation of high demand during Gay Pride events. However metro workers are planning to strike from Wednesday, June 28, to Sunday July 2. If the walkout goes ahead as planned, the strike will start on June 28 at 13:00 and finish at midnight on July 2. All metro lines will be affected.

Context

The World Gay Pride festival will bring thousands of visitors to the capital. Up to 2 million people are expected by the organizers on July 1 for the main events.

Advice

Individuals in Madrid are advised to anticipate increased security surrounding all related events as well as significant transportation disruptions, particularly if the planned June 28-July 2 metro strike goes ahead as planned. Additionally, although no specific threats have been reported, Spain remains subject to an underlying threat of terrorism; remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.