This year’s theme for Lahti Pride Week is Permission to be seen. The theme highlights that minorities are a valued part of society and that they have the right to be seen and heard.
In 2025, the City of Lahti and Lahti Seta entered into a three-year main partnership agreement, under which the City of Lahti will serve as Lahti Pride’s main partner until 2027.
– Lahti Pride Week is above all a celebration of equality. Over the decades, we have done a great deal of work to promote equality. However, the work is not yet complete, and much still remains to be done, says Niko Kyynäräinen, Mayor of Lahti.
Sexual and gender minorities have historically faced prejudice. Even today, in Finland and around the world, there are still structures and attitudes that seek to marginalise and silence the rainbow community and other minorities.
– Lahti is a city for everyone. Over the years, everyone has been welcomed here. As mayor, I hope that we are a city where everyone can live as their true selves, just as they are, Kyynäräinen emphasises.
In 2026, the patron of Lahti Pride is Raija Forsman, CEO of Visit Lahti.
– The event is organised by volunteers in cooperation with local businesses and associations. Lahti Pride is a vital part of rainbow culture in the Päijät-Häme region. Tolerance, equality, and consideration of diverse target groups are also a central part of tourism in the Lahti region, Forsman states.
Events for all residents of Lahti
Throughout the week, a wide range of events is available for all residents of Lahti, including lectures, workshops, and cultural events. The week culminates in the traditional Pride parade and the main day celebrations.
On Tuesday, 19 May, the Rainbow-Friendly Lahti panel discussion will be held at Malva, with, among others, Pekka Komu, Chair of the Lahti City Board, taking part in the discussion.
The full weekly programme is available on the Lahti Pride website.
At Lahti Pride Week events, safer space principles are followed. Everyone has the right to feel safe, heard, and part of the community. This is achieved when all participants follow the safer space guidelines and look out for one another.