Shakira's World Pride Opening Concert Performance Cancelled Suddenly Due to Technical Issues
Shakira's last-minute cancellation due to equipment issues dampens Washington's World Pride kickoff just days before the event, amid political tensions and security concerns.
The nation’s capital is facing an unexpected change of plans on the eve of one of the world’s most significant LGBTQ+ celebrations. Shakira, the internationally acclaimed pop icon, has abruptly canceled her headline performance for the highly anticipated kickoff concert of World Pride 2025 due to unresolved equipment issues. The last-minute announcement came as a blow to both organizers and attendees, many of whom had traveled great distances to witness the event’s opening festivities.
According to organizers, the technical complications stem from prior logistical setbacks at Shakira’s Thursday concert in Boston, which was also canceled just hours before showtime. The persistent equipment difficulties made it impossible to transport and set up her full tour production in Washington, D.C. by Saturday night as initially scheduled. In their statement, the Capital Pride Alliance expressed disappointment, underscoring that “despite every effort to make it happen, it is not possible to move forward as planned.” The organization promised further details soon about a relocated and reorganized Opening Ceremony.
Though the cancellation of a star performer is a significant obstacle, the Capital Pride Alliance stressed that the broader schedule of citywide World Pride events will continue as planned this weekend. Still, for many in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, Shakira’s absence adds to the mounting challenges facing this year’s celebration in Washington.
Complicating matters further, political tensions have already cast a shadow over international participation at World Pride 2025. Organizers previously anticipated a drop in overseas attendance amid widespread concern surrounding President Donald Trump’s policies on LGBTQ+ rights. Trump’s stance against trans protections and drag performances has prompted international advocacy groups to issue warnings about travel to the United States, citing fears that transgender or non-binary visitors could encounter problems at border control due to the administration’s rigid gender policies.
Some individuals and organizations have publicly announced their decision to avoid this year’s festival, whether due to security concerns or as a deliberate boycott of U.S. policies. At the same time, others have called for a show of solidarity, urging members of the national LGBTQ+ community to mobilize in support of the event and its mission.
In response to the political climate and heightened security concerns, event officials have reinforced safety measures for the final concert and rally scheduled along Pennsylvania Avenue. Large sections of the city center will see increased fencing and restricted access during the closing weekend from June 6-8.
Despite early reports of declining hotel reservations, there are recent signs of renewed interest. Last-minute bookings—especially among domestic travelers—appear to be surging, suggesting a groundswell of local and national support for World Pride. “What we’re seeing now is a surge at the last minute, especially with the national community,” noted Destination D.C. President Elliott Ferguson, who suggested that concerns over international attendance might have actually energized domestic turnout.
As organizers scramble to adjust opening ceremony plans in light of Shakira’s cancellation, the city’s LGBTQ+ community and allies remain committed to making World Pride 2025 a powerful demonstration of resilience and unity—regardless of the obstacles faced.
