Finland’s flag may be blue and white, but during one week in summer, Helsinki proudly displays a more colorful spectrum for Pride, Helsinki. The biggest GLBT event in Finland and one of Helsinki’s biggest week long affairs, it has become an increasingly popular party in northern Europe. In the past, Helsinki Pride has held exciting activities alongside the colorful parade and demonstrations, enlisting a multitude of supporters for free expression of sexuality as well as the acceptance of alternative lifestyles. Come June 25, 2012, the multicolored phenomena will recommence so get ready.
Last year’s attendees, totaling nearly 15,000 people, participated in parties, meetings, discussions, and the pinnacle event of the week, the Pride Parade. Helsinki Pride blossoms throughout the city, influencing exuberance in its path. The most vivid depiction of Helsinki Pride’s sweeping prevalence is the moment the Pride Parade runs its course from Senate Square to Kaisaniemi Park, right in the heart of city center.
A number of musicians and artists performed last year, including the Finnish indie pop band Regina. Their exclusive “I Want You” single was distributed free at some Helsinki Pride venues. Other artists were Finnish singer Anna Abreu, the Finnish group PMMP, and Swedish pop singer Shirley Clamp.
The music was accompanied throughout the week by insightful discussions, upholding Helsinki Pride’s goal of promoting and strengthening diversity. The event is organized by SETA, a non-profit GLBT organization in Helsinki comprised entirely of volunteers and working with collected funds. Both SETA and Helsinki Pride face the challenge of bringing different kinds of people together to discuss and debate on subjects that are sometimes considered touchy or controversial.
This year’s Helsinki Pride is set for June 25 to July 1, with events and activities happening round the clock. So if you want to really let your hair down, and experience Helsinki at the kick off of the endless days of summer, be sure to check out Helsinki Pride as it’s a welcome walk across the tracks.
www.helsinkipride.fi/