San Francisco Pride 2023
- 24-25 Jun
- San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Pride is an annual event that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community and their achievements. It's held in San Francisco, California, and is one of the largest Pride events in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees each year.
The event includes a parade, a festival, and various other activities throughout the weekend. The parade is the highlight of the event, and it typically starts at the Embarcadero and ends at Civic Center Plaza, passing through the heart of San Francisco's LGBTQ+ neighborhood, the Castro District. The festival is held at Civic Center Plaza and features a variety of vendors, food trucks, live music, and other entertainment.
San Francisco Pride has a rich history, dating back to 1970, when it was first held as a commemoration of the Stonewall riots in New York City the previous year. Since then, the event has grown significantly and has become a symbol of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
The theme for San Francisco Pride changes each year, reflecting the current social and political climate. In recent years, themes have included "Generations of Resistance," "Equality without Exception," and "The Many Colors of Pride."
The event includes a parade, a festival, and various other activities throughout the weekend. The parade is the highlight of the event, and it typically starts at the Embarcadero and ends at Civic Center Plaza, passing through the heart of San Francisco's LGBTQ+ neighborhood, the Castro District. The festival is held at Civic Center Plaza and features a variety of vendors, food trucks, live music, and other entertainment.
San Francisco Pride has a rich history, dating back to 1970, when it was first held as a commemoration of the Stonewall riots in New York City the previous year. Since then, the event has grown significantly and has become a symbol of the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
The theme for San Francisco Pride changes each year, reflecting the current social and political climate. In recent years, themes have included "Generations of Resistance," "Equality without Exception," and "The Many Colors of Pride."
The Mission of the San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Pride Celebration Committee is to educate the world, commemorate our heritage, celebrate our culture, and liberate our people.
With over 200 parade contingents and exhibitors, and more than twenty community-run stages and venues, the San Francisco Pride Celebration and Parade is the largest gathering of the LGBT community and allies in the nation.
Celebrations begin on a Saturday in Civic Center Plaza in downtown San Francisco the last full weekend of June each year. The Parade, which takes place the Sunday morning of the event, kicks off from Beale Street along Market and ends at Market and 8th St. in the heart of downtown San Francisco.
Upcoming Mega Events Nearby
Here are 10 recommendations and tips for a gay traveler visiting San Francisco during Pride:
- Plan ahead: San Francisco Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the world, so it's important to plan ahead to make the most of your trip. Book your accommodations well in advance, and consider buying tickets for any events you want to attend early to avoid long lines.
- Explore the Castro: The Castro district is known as the heart of San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community, and it's a must-visit destination during Pride. Take a walk down Castro Street to see the colorful rainbow crosswalks, and check out the shops, restaurants, and bars in the area.
- Attend the parade: The San Francisco Pride Parade is one of the highlights of the event, and it's not to be missed. The parade takes place on the Sunday of Pride weekend and features floats, perfurmers, and thousands of participants.
- Attend the festival: The Pride festival takes place in Civic Center Plaza and features live music, vendors, and food trucks. It's a great place to meet other LGBTQ+ people and celebrate Pride in a fun and festive environment.
- Check out the nightlife: San Francisco is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to explore during Pride. Some popolar options include The Stud, The EndUp, and Oasis.
- Get involved in community events: In addition to the official Pride events, there are also plenty of community events happening throughout the city during Pride. Check out local LGBTQ+ organizations to see what's happening and get involved.
- Visit the GLBT Historical Society Museum: The GLBT Historical Society Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history. The museum features exhibits and archives chronicling the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community over the years.
- Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island: While it's not specifically a LGBTQ+ destination, a trip to Alcatraz Island is a great way to experience San Francisco's history and natural beauty. Take a ferry from Pier 33 to explore the island and learn about its fascinating past.
- Visit the Golden Gate Park: The Golden Gate Park is one of San Francisco's most iconic landmarks, and it's a great place to spend a day exploring. Take a walk through the park's gardens, visit the de Young Museum, or take a boat ride on Stow Lake.
- Be yourself and have fun!: Finally, remember that Pride is all about celebrating who you are and having a good time. Don't be afraid to let loose, make new friends, and enjoy all that San Francisco has to offer during Pride!
Men-only and gay-friendly hotels to choose from. Here are a few popular options:
- The Parker Guest House Located in the Castro District, The Parker Guest House is a beautiful, gay-friendly bed & breakfast. The historic Edwardian building features elegantly furnished rooms and landscaped gardens, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, wine socials, and free Wi-Fi. Check Availability and Prices: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/parker-guest-house-san-francisco.html?aid=1319615
- Beck's Motor Lodge This iconic gay-friendly hotel is situated in the heart of the Castro District. Beck's Motor Lodge offers a modern, boutique experience with updated rooms and amenities. The hotel features a sun deck, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary parking. Its prime location makes it perfect for exploring the city's nightlife, shops, and restaurants. Check Availability and Prices: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/beck-s-motor-lodge.html?aid=1319615
- Hotel Diva Hotel Diva is a stylish and gay-friendly hotel located in Union Square. This chic hotel offers unique room designs, custom-designed furnishings, and contemporary art. The hotel's amenities include a fitness center, a business center, and free Wi-Fi. Union Square's shopping and dining options are just steps away from the hotel. Check Availability and Prices: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/diva.html?aid=1319615
- The Inn on Folsom This adults-only, gay-friendly boutique hotel is located in the SoMa neighborhood. The Inn on Folsom offers a modern urban experience with industrial-chic design and comfortable rooms. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and lounge, as well as complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. Check Availability and Prices: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/the-inn-on-folsom.html?aid=1319615
- The Mystic Hotel by Charlie Palmer The Mystic Hotel is a gay-friendly boutique hotel nestled in the bustling Union Square neighborhood. The hotel offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, featuring custom-designed rooms, a speakeasy-style bar, and an acclaimed restaurant. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, concierge service, and free Wi-Fi. Check Availability and Prices: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/the-mystic.html?aid=1319615