Helsinki Pride parade fills city centre

The Helsinki Pride parade will fill the city centre on Saturday, with a live broadcast starting at 11:40 local time, public broadcaster Yle reports.

The event marks the climax of Helsinki Pride week, celebrating equality and diversity. For the first time, the entire programme is fully accessible, including an accessible float to enable participation for those using mobility aids.

Yle’s live stream, hosted by journalist Nina Svahn, will feature interviews with Helsinki Pride board chair Matti Numminen and Rainbow Network chair Elisa Gebhard (SDP).

Last year, police estimated over 100,000 participants in the parade. This year’s route runs from Senate Square via Snellmaninkatu, Aleksanterinkatu, Mannerheimintie, South Esplanade, Kasarmikatu, Neitsytpolku, ending at Kaivopuisto park, where a free park celebration will follow.

Traffic in central Helsinki will be disrupted, with road closures in effect until approximately 15:00. Police will direct traffic during the event.