DC Officials Prepare for World Pride and Military Parade Events

WASHINGTON (AP) — Officials in Washington, D.C., are gearing up for an eventful week as the city hosts World Pride celebrations followed by a military parade. Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith stated, “We are really the experts in this space when it comes to crowd management.”

The action begins on June 7 and 8 with the peak of World Pride, featuring a parade and a rally on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. These events will culminate in a vibrant street party and concert along Pennsylvania Avenue.

Once World Pride wraps up, the focus will shift to June 14 for a military parade celebrating the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army. This event will feature heavy military equipment, including M1 Abrams tanks.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has expressed concerns about the potential damage to city streets from the military vehicles. Despite military assurances for repair costs and protective measures, she remains cautious, stating, “If they are rendered unusable, we have to make them usable and then go seek our money from the feds.”

Security concerns have heightened leading up to these high-profile events, with potential counterprotests anticipated. Specific worries have emerged regarding World Pride in light of President Trump’s policies and comments against LGBTQ+ rights. Organizers plan to install security fencing at the street party to enhance safety.

While initial hotel reservation numbers suggested lower attendance for World Pride, Elliott Ferguson, president of Destination D.C., cited a recent surge in last-minute bookings. The military parade is expected to attract approximately 200,000 attendees, along with a counterprotest known as the No Kings rally.

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Lindsey Appiah noted the challenges of managing such extensive events, especially with unexpected changes. She highlighted the city’s adaptability, as demonstrated earlier this year during several high-profile events.

The city’s busy schedule won’t conclude after the military parade. Following that event, the capital will prepare for matches in the FIFA Club World Cup and the traditional July 4 fireworks celebration.