San Francisco is a pioneering city in the areas of gender rights, marriage equality, and the freedom to let the rainbow flag fly. It gathers about a million proud attendees, 300 exhibitors, and 220 parade contingents and features over 20 stages and party venues. It's not just an event; it's a celebration that embodies community, self-expression, and the ongoing struggle for equality.
Schedule of Events
The festivities will span two days in Civic Center, running from 11 am to 6 pm on Saturday, June 29, and Sunday, June 30, with various entertainments. This celebration marks the culmination of a month filled with Pride events across the City. On Saturday, June 29, from 8 am to 11 am is a Pride For Breakfast Event. The Human Rights Summit is on Thursday, June 27, at Commonwealth Club, followed by the Official SFPride After Party on Saturday, June 29, at Public Works, and the SF Pride Party at City Hall, also taking place on June 30.
The Pride Parade (June 30, 2024)
The highlight of the weekend—the Pride Parade—is usually on Sunday at 10:30. The parade route goes west along Market Street, from Beale to 8th Street. Thousands of participants from various groups and organizations take part in it. Every year, the parade is led by the San Francisco Women's Motorcycle Contingent, the Dykes on Bikes. The most original and creative participants of the parade may win a special prize in eight different categories.
It's not simply a colorful procession; it's a civic march featuring Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) and LGBT-affirming religious groups. However, viewers will also see plenty of neon feathers and glittering sequins. It's a loud party with music and Harley motorbikes, a tribute to the diversity of San Francisco. Besides the Parade, you can join the parties, gatherings, movie nights, and all sorts of events held throughout the weekend.
Accessibility
The event is also fully wheelchair-accessible; all zones of the festival (including restrooms) are suitable for handicapped visitors. Plus, there is ASL interpretation. The grandstands to watch the parade are located on the north side of Market Street between 7th and 8th Streets. The entrance is located near the 8th Street.
Tickets & Parking
The Parade is open to the public. Pride Passes are available for purchase and include all June celebration events. An Individual Early Bird Pride Pass costs $200 and includes Grandstand seating, an afterparty RSVP, a party at City Hall RSVP, and an exclusive Pride T-shirt. A pair pass costs $300. One might consider taking a bus, being dropped off, or walking to the station. BART will commence operations at 8 am and continue running five-line service until 8 pm, with additional event trains operating based on ridership demand. BART provides free parking on weekends.
