Massive party kicks off World Outgames in Copenhagen at site of first ever legal gay marriage

World Outgames 2009 opened on Saturday with a symbolic bang in Copenhagen Town Square – the site of the first legally recognised homosexual vows in history.

Participants from 97 countries paraded down a 50-metre catwalk extending from the entrance of City Hall, stepping in time to the sounds of Danish Music Award winner DJ BUDA and Tom.

An audio/visual show with elements of “new circus” artist Anders Astrup Jensen’s celebrated work entertained onlookers as dramatic presentations centring on the themes of gender, identity and diversity were the main attractions of the festivities. 

Singer Annisette, backed by a 100-man choir, took to the stage for the grand finale to perform the official World Outgames 2009 theme song ‘Freedom to Love’ to a packed crowd of thousands.

As if the stunning opening ceremony wasn’t enough, participants and guests were invited to Halvandet for an official after-party that continued well into the early morning hours.

The opening ceremony for World Outgames marks the start of a week’s programme, which includes culture and art, sporting competitions and a three-day international conference on lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender human rights starting today.