Long Beach Pride 2026
Long Beach Pride has grown from a local grassroots march into one of Southern California’s most anticipated queer festivals, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the sun-drenched waterfront each year. The 2026 edition will mark the 42nd year of celebrations and is scheduled for the weekend of May 16‑17. Over two days, Marina Green Park will be transformed into a colourful festival site overlooking the bay, with stages set up for pop, hip-hop, country and Latin acts and plenty of room for dancing, socialising and eating. The producers pride themselves on creating a space where everyone feels welcome, whether you identify as lgbtq+Q+, ally or simply appreciate an inclusive atmosphere.
Every year the festivities kick off with community parties on Friday evening in bars and clubs across Long Beach. On Saturday morning the gates open to the festival village and you can wander through art installations and cultural showcases, try the silent disco or roller rink, catch high-energy drag shows and ballroom dance competitions or just relax on the grass as DJs keep the music flowing. The Fiesta Caliente stage is the heart of the festival’s Latino contingent, spotlighting local and international performers and celebrating the city’s vibrant Hispanic roots. If you’re visiting with kids or teens, there are dedicated youth zones with their own activities and entertainment. Food vendors serve everything from tacos and pupusas to classic festival fare.
Sunday morning sees Ocean Boulevard shut down for the Pride Parade. Colourful floats, marching bands, motorcycle clubs and community organisations make their way west toward Shoreline Drive as spectators line the route waving flags and cheering. It’s free to attend and culminates at the festival grounds, where the party continues well into the evening. Runners can also join the annual Pride Run along Junipero Avenue earlier in the day.
Between events take time to explore Long Beach’s gay district centred on Broadway between Alamitos and Cherry Avenue. Popular spots include Hamburger Mary’s for dinner and drag performances, The Falcon for laid‑back drinks and dancing and The Silver Fox, an lgbtq+Q+ institution with a welcoming bar and live DJs. There are plenty of accommodation options around downtown and the waterfront. Check the official website for ticket information and programming updates.
Official Website: https://longbeachpride.com/