San Diego’s Pride Week

This year’s Pride is bigger than ever! With over 100 live performances and 5 entertainment zones - it’s the perfect event to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
Todd Sarouhan
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
San Diego’s Pride Week
Pride is Almost Here!
Get Tickets & Stay Nearby
Featured Pride Events
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Pride Activities

Highlights

San Diego’s Pride Week
Things to Do
Getting There
Tips
San Diego’s Pride Week
Things to Do
Getting There
Tips

A Parade, 5 K, a Rally, and More! Pride in July is Almost Here!

Lgbtq Flag in HillcrestHillcrest Has Many Restaurants

San Diego’s Pride week is back and with tons of amazing events leading up to the main parade - you’ll want to plan your itinerary early.

Of course, there’s never a bad time to visit San Diego - but the Pride Festival gives the city an extra electric feeling. In fact, San Diego delivers one of the largest pride festivals and parades in the entire country.

San Diego Pride impressively packs a lot of events and live entertainment into a few short days. From a Block Party to the Pride Parade and the 2-day Pride Festival, Pride is easily the city’s largest civic event.

San Diego Pride: A Mini History

In 1974, what began as a yard sale and potluck dinner, turned into a protest march against the San Diego PD - and a celebration of the spirit of the Stonewall Rebellion that took place in New York City’s Christopher Street - grew into 1975’s first official Gay Pride Day.

1994 was a big year for the organization. San Diego Pride officially incorporated as a non-profit. And both the parade and festival took the shape that’s recognizable by attendees today.

The current parade route - Hillcrest along University Avenue and 6th Avenue to Balboa Park - was settled in 1993.

Hillcrest Sign
Hillcrest Sign

And the 2024 Theme is…

In honor of the sacrifices, fortitude, and strength of both past and present members of the LGBTQIA+ community, this year’s theme is Making History Now.

The theme not only calls for justice and liberation, but also a celebration of the first marches.

With the 50th anniversary on the horizon, Pride and the future look bright.

Dates

Pride events begin on Saturday, July 13th, with She Fest and culminates on Sunday, July 21st with the last day of Pride Fest.

Of course, the festivities don’t end there. San Diego Pride proudly states, “in San Diego, Pride is year-round.”

The organization hosts several events, including programs that furthers their mission of “fostering pride, equality, and respect for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities locally, nationally, and globally.”

Local Tips
Arrive Early for Events
Arriving early will help you secure a good spot and avoid the stress of finding parking. Utilize the free shuttle service from the Old Naval Hospital parking lot to the parade and festival to save time and hassle.

Ticket Information, Where to Stay & More!

San Diego’s Pride Week hosts multiple events and luckily most of them are free.

Both VIP and regular 2 day tickets for the 2024 Pride Festival are currently available for purchase.

VIP Tickets

VIP Tickets Include:

  • Weekend VIP access
  • Branded VIP credential & wristband
  • Exclusive entrance
  • Expanded VIP lounge
  • Enhanced views of main stage
  • Upgraded VIP restrooms
  • Catered food from 1pm to 7pm in the VIP lounge
  • 4 hosted drinks redeemable at any festival bar per day

Tickets are currently $229, including the service fee.

Regular Tickets

Regular 2 Day Tickets Include:

  • Weekend access

Tickets are currently $46, including the service fee.

Where to Get Tickets

Tickets are available directly through the San Diego Pride Festival website.

Tickets will also be available directly from the box office during Pride weekend.

Box Office Tickets

  • VIP Tickets: $239
  • Weekend Pass: $42
  • Senior (65+) Tickets: $15
  • High-School Youth & Younger: Free

Heads up, you must pick up any youth tickets at the box office before entering the festival.

Where to Stay Nearby: The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows

First and foremost, Pride gets packed and with the 50th anniversary looming, we can’t stress the importance of planning and booking ahead enough.

The Lafayette is one of our favorite hotels in the area - and if you’re looking to make the most of your stay in San Diego and be able to unwind after a full night out - there’s no better place.

A dazzling array of colors. Stained glass and polished brass. Recently renovated rooms. And glittery homages to its past as a haven for Hollywood’s golden stars.

Don’t forget to save room for a snack! Quixote’s signature crab corn doughnut is a guest favorite. Of course, if you’re in late after celebrating all day and night long don’t worry - The Beginner’s Diner is open 24/7.

Balboa Park close to Hillcrest
Balboa Park close to Hillcrest

Do More in Balboa Park

There’s more to see and do in Balboa Park than you realize.

From museums, to gardens, to the world famous San Diego Zoo, you can do more in Balboa Park with a Go City San Diego pass.

And since you’re saving up to 50% off admission on over 50 attractions, you can splurge on that little something you have your eye on.

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The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows
Outdoor Pool at the Lafayette Hotel Swim Club and Bungalows
Balboa Park
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Feast your senses and experience the glamor of 1980s luxury at the stylized Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club, & Bungalow in San Diego’s North Park neighborhood.
Prices Starting at $127
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Featured Pride Events

San Diego’s Pride Week is all about delivering top-notch entertainment, creating a space for the community, and of course, a celebration.

This year, in honor of this significant milestone, Pride is giving the stage to “ icons of the future, particularly BIPOC, women, and trans artists, while remembering those who have come before us.”

Light Up the Cathedral for Pride

It’s a celebration of faith and pride.

Join both Faith Leaders and the Faith Community as they come together to not only celebrate, but honor and remember.

This Interfaith Pride Celebration will be led by Dean Penny Bridges, LGBTQIA+ Faith Leaders and Allied Faith Leaders.

Attendees will then watch as St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral is lit in rainbow colors.

  • Date: Wednesday, July 17th
  • Time: 7 PM (Lasting approximately 1.5 hours)
  • Location: St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral (2728 6th Avenue, enter through the arches on the 5th Avenue side).

San Diego Pride Parade

We really think that the parade is the highlight of the celebration!

Join thousands of spectators, and cheer on your favorite floats, guests, and participants in the city’s “largest single-day civic event.”

This is the event to honor and celebrate Pride, and you won’t want to miss it.

There is still time to register to march in the parade. You can find more info and where to register on the official website.

  • Date: Saturday, July 20th
  • Time: 10 AM
  • Location: The parade begins at the Hillcrest Pride Flag at University Ave. and Normal St., proceeds west on University Ave., turns south on 6th Ave., turns left onto Balboa Dr. and ends at Quince Dr.
  • Route Length: 1.5 miles

San Diego Pride Festival

100+ artists, 5 entertainment zones, 4 stages, and booths galore - this special anniversary weekend promises to be bigger and better.

This is it - the time to be “out and proud” in the city’s biggest party.

Attendees will have access to live entertainment, interactive exhibits, resources, cultural presentations, and more.

Headliners

  • Rico Nasty - Multi-platinum rapper and singer
  • Sheila E. - Grammy nominated singer, drummer, and percussionist
  • Todrick Hall - LGBTQIA+ advocate, performer, producer and Broadway star

Featured Guests

  • For The Girls Tour Ft. Lady Camden, Boscon, and Daya Betty
  • J. Worra
  • Kaleena Zanders
  • Nymphia Wind
  • Slayyyter
  • Tommy Genesis

Further Details

  • Date: Saturday, July 20th
  • Time: 11 AM - 10 PM
  • Date: Sunday, July 21st
  • Time: 11 AM - 9 PM
  • Location: Balboa Park (6th Ave. & Laurel St.)

She Fest

This is the start of San Diego’s Pride Week!

She Fest is the perfect place to discover 2SLGBTQIA+ small businesses and get access to community resources at this flagship event.

With live entertainment, vendors, workshops, and access to plenty of community-based organizations and activities - this is a celebration of 2SLGBTQIA+ women, non-binary people, and allies.

  • Date: Saturday, July 13th
  • Time: 11 AM - 8 PM
  • Location: Hillcrest Pride Flag, 1500 University Ave

Spirit Of Stonewall Rally

“No More!” was the shout heard from NYC around the world and it grew to an annual event held in cities around the world.

The Spirit of Stonewall Rally is a dedicated time to not only honor the leaders who are active in the community, that work toward not only a future where all are equal - but where all can thrive.

It is also a chance for attendees to learn further about the urgent concerns facing the community.

2024 Spirit of Stonewall Nominations

Individuals who have set themselves apart through their work in activism, leadership, or fundraising are eligible to be nominated.

It is a recognition and celebration of those who’s work within the LGBTQ community has not gone unnoticed.

Featured speakers and nominees will be announced at a later date.

  • Date: Friday, July 19th
  • Time: 6 PM
  • Location: Hillcrest Pride Flag, 1500 University Ave

As the San Diego Pride Executive Director, Fernando Z. López said, “heart and gratitude to all those who relentlessly carried us here and each of you who are fearlessly taking us forward to a future where all of us can Thrive!”

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What attractions are included with a Go City San Diego pass?

Attractions that you can visit with a Go City San Diego pass include:

The San Diego Zoo, Birch Aquarium, SeaWorld, Safari Park, LEGOLAND, Harbor Cruise, USS Midway Museum, the NAT Museum, Whaley House, PETCO Park Tour, iFLY San Diego and many, many more!

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Pride Activities & Entertainment

Outdoor Sidewalk Dining in Hillcrest
Outdoor Sidewalk Dining in Hillcrest

Pride Festival attendees get to enjoy live entertainment and have access to community resources and booths.

Applications for both exhibitors and entertainment artists are still open. You can both find applications and more info on the official website.

Guests are still being added to all the events. Keep an eye out closer to July in order to get further info on all available activities, resources, vendors, and live entertainment.

San Diego Pride Visitor Information, Parking, & Transportation

Below is what you need to know to get to each Pride event.

Light Up the Cathedral for Pride

St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral

2728 Sixth Ave

San Diego, CA 92103

Directions

The Cathedral is located in the Banker’s Hill area next to Balboa Park.

It is on the corner of 5th Avenue and Nutmeg St.

Be advised, the entrance is on 5th Avenue.

Balboa Park Parking lot at the Veterans Museum
Balboa Park Parking lot at the Veterans Museum

Parking

Vehicle entrance for the parking garage is on Olive Street, between 5th and 6th.

Limited street parking is available surrounding the Cathedral.

Additional ADA parking is available along Balboa Dr. in Balboa Park.

Public Transportation

Take the MTS Bus # 3 to 5th Ave. & Nutmeg St, it will stop in front of the Cathedral.

Take the MTS Bus # 11 to 1st Ave. & Nutmeg St and you’ll be approximately 0.3 miles from the entrance.

San Diego Pride Parade & San Diego Pride Festival

The official parade and festival website recommends the following transportation options.

Bikes & Scooters

A scooter and bike corral is located at the corner of Balboa Dr. and El Prado.

Uber Dropping off in Downtown San Diego
Uber Dropping off in Downtown San Diego

Rideshare Options

Guests can choose to be dropped off from an Uber or Lyft at the festival entrance at the corner of Laurel St. and 6th Ave.

Parking Lot

A free parking lot is available at the Old Naval Hospital (Park Blvd and Presidents Way).

A free shuttle will be available to take guests to both the parade and festival.

Shuttle Service

A shuttle will run to the parade from 7 AM to 3 PM.

A shuttle will run to the festival from 8 AM to 12 AM on Saturday and 8 AM to 11 PM on Sunday..

An express shuttle from the parade to the festival will run from 12 PM to 4 PM.

Accessibility vans will be available on call at any Pride Shuttle stop. Volunteers will be on hand to contact the van. They will run 8 AM to midnight on Saturday and 7 AM to 10 PM on Sunday.

Public Transportation

Rapid 215 will offer service every 15 minutes throughout the weekend.

Riders can connect to the shuttle service at Park Blvd. and Presidents Way.

Be aware the last bus will leave Hillcrest at midnight.

Bus # 1, 3, 20, 11, and 120 can bring guests directly to the parade route.

Take bus # 3 and 120 to 5th Ave & Laurel Street or 4th Ave & Laurel Street for access to the festival.

She Fest & Spirit Of Stonewall Rally

Hillcrest Pride Flag

1500 University Ave

San Diego, CA 92103

Directions

She Fest and Spirit Of Stonewall Rally will take place at Normal St and University, under the Hillcrest Pride Flag.

Parking

Limited street parking is available.

ADA parking can be found on University Ave.

Public Transportation

Take the bus # 1 or 11 and get off at University Ave. & Normal St.

The # 10 and 215 bus at University Ave. & Park Blvd will leave you downhill, 0.2 miles from the entrance.

Know Before you Go

In order to make the most of Pride, we highly recommend planning ahead and early.

Parking can be difficult, so it’s best to arrive early and take the shuttle in. Make plans to stay late and have fun to minimize travel frustrations.

Pride Festival Tickets

While youth tickets are free, be sure to stop at the box office to pick up the youth tickets before entering the festival.

Admission

Tickets grant you access to:

  • Multiple stages
  • Dance areas
  • Beverage areas
  • Community information booths and vendors
  • Art of Pride
  • Children’s Garden
  • Leather Realm
  • Youth Zone

Prohibited Items

The following items are not allowed at Pride Festival:

  • Air Horns
  • Alcohol
  • Bicycles, Skates, Scooters or Skateboards (Store your bike at our free bike storage!)
  • Drones or Remote Control Aircraft, Cars or Toys
  • Flyers, Samples, Giveaways or Promotional Items
  • Illegal Drugs
  • Instruments
  • Laser Pointers
  • Outside Beverages. Exception for unopened disposable water bottles.
  • All reusable water bottles, canteens, and hydration packs must be empty.
  • Outside Food
  • Pets or Other Animals – Except Service Animals
  • Weapons

Pack the Essentials

Take extra precautions when attending the parade, as it will run for a few hours:

  • Pack sunscreen
  • Stay Hydrated
  • Bring a snack
  • If you arrive early, try to get a seat at one of the handful of review stand areas.

Road Closures

Because of the parade route, several road closures and no parking zones will be in effect on Saturday.

Plan to avoid street closures and be advised they may go in effect as early as 4 am. Consult the official website for a list of all closures.

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