Denver’s 51st annual PrideFest will hit Civic Center Park this weekend to close out Pride month. To help you prepare for being part of the rainbow-decked crowds, here’s what you need to know before you go!
When, Where, and How
The biggest thing to know for this year’s events is that the parade has changed routes to avoid the construction on Colfax and will now run along 17th Street. The parade kicks off Sunday at 9:30 a.m. from the corner of 17th Street and Franklin Street. It will proceed along 17th to Lincoln Street. PrideFest will be at its usual location in Civic Center Park on Saturday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and again on Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Both the parade and the festival are free.
Show Up Early and Prepare For Crowds
With a turnout of more than 100,000 people anticipated for the parade, viewers are encouraged to nab their spot early. (There will be an area reserved for accessible seating at 17th and Grant Street that will include space for wheelchair users and ASL interpreters.) Parking downtown is hard to come by even when it’s not Pride weekend, so a rideshare or public transit may be better options. If you do drive, here are some parking tips, as well as information on bicycle parking.
Check the Forecast
Currently, the weather forecast for Saturday and Sunday is mostly sunny with temps in the 80s and even up to low 90s on Saturday, so plan to pack your hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. I’d recommend double checking the forecast before heading out the door, though — we all know how fickle Colorado weather can be!
Dos and Donts
You can find an exhaustive list of festival rules here, but two big ones worth noting: 1) Pets are not allowed; and 2) bags are allowed, but are subject to search. Also, while it's not a rule, don't forget to stay hydrated!
Bookmark These Resources!
- Check out the Gayborhood Market, a new addition at the Lincoln Veteran Memorial Park highlighting local LGBTQ+ businesses!
- Plan your day around the drag lineup and DJ schedule.
- Need info on the go? Download the new Denver Pride mobile app.
- Keep the party going with official Denver Pride events, as well as some community celebrations.
