Pride officially begins on Saturday, July 13th at 12 PM with She Fest, a celebration that highlights both LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people.
She Fest will take place at the Hillcrest Pride Flag, 1500 University Ave, San Diego.
On Wednesday, July 17th at 7 PM, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral will hold Light Up the Cathedral. Join hundreds in a celebration of faith, resilience, and support as the Cathedral is lit in the iconic rainbow colors.
The Spirit of Stonewall Rally kicks off the weekend festivities on Friday, July 19th at 6 PM. You won’t want to miss this memorable event that recognizes the community, leaders nominated for the Spirit in Stonewall awards, the raising of the Pride flag, and the historic moment - and cry - that sparked change.
The Rally will take place at the Hillcrest Pride Flag, 1500 University Ave, San Diego.
Rainbow Flag at Chocolat in Hillcrest
The Big Party Starts Saturday, July 20th
Saturday is all about the iconic Parade and San Diego’s largest summer party, the Pride Festival.
The Parade
The San Diego Pride Parade, what I see as the main event of the Pride Festivities, returns and it’s promising more floats, more bands, more participants, and more spectacular moments for this monumental anniversary.
This year’s theme is “Making History Now” and it fits perfectly with Pride’s ongoing themes of acceptance, unity, and, of course, remembrance.
From the first march in 1974 to the incorporation of Pride in 1994 to community champions and hard won advancements of today, this year’s parade is sure to celebrate it all.
The parade begins at 10 AM at Hillcrest Pride Flag at University Ave. and Normal St.
It will continue west on University Ave and turn south on 6th Ave. It will then turn left onto Balboa Dr before ending at Quince Dr.
The Festival
Raise your hands Balboa Party - the party is about to begin!
As Entertainment Director, Gardenia Partridge, said: LGBTQIA+ artists have always been invaluable torchbearers for the community’s civil rights movements.
This year over 120 LGBTQIA+ artists will feature in the festival’s entertainment zones for thousands of spectators.
Partridge promises that the stages will “serve as a vital platform to elevate artists in the exploration of their craft.”
Get Your Tickets
Regular tickets are still available for the Pride Festival.
- $38 for the Weekend Pass
- $219 for VIP Access
Last Minute Box Office Tickets will be available during Pride Weekend.
- $42 for the Weekend Pass
- $239 for VIP Access
Youth Tickets (High School and Younger) are free at the box office. Reminder, you must go to the Box Office to collect your free ticket before entering the event.
Senior Tickets (65+) are $15 at the Box Office.
Volunteers entrance is free as well - after a completed 5-hour shift. Volunteer spots are still available on the Festival website.
The Beautiful Lafayette Hotel in University Heights
Where to Stay: The Lafayette Hotel and Club
Shout out to one of my favorite area hotels!
Like I said in my previous article - after a long day at Pride - you won’t want to rest your head anywhere else!
Poolside rooms? Balcony rooms? Patio and penthouse suites? They’ve got them!
And if you get in late, Beginner’s Diner is open 24 hours, while The Gutter offers cocktails until 2 AM.
Of course, is there anything better than a day at the pool after a long, fast paced weekend?
The Lafayette Hotel’s pool is the perfect place to lounge as you reminisce over the weekend. And know that the property is very LGBTQA+ friendly and accommodating.