One of the largest Pride celebrations in the Southeast is getting underway in downtown St. Petersburg, with events starting Friday and continuing through the weekend.
Organizers say St. Pete Pride will once again draw hundreds of thousands of people to the city for a celebration centered on inclusion, entertainment and community.
Festivities begin Friday night with a concert and night market at the Coliseum, offering live music, local vendors and an indoor option to beat the summer heat.
The weekend ramps up Saturday, when the Pride festival opens at North Straub Park in the afternoon. The signature Pride parade is set to step off at 6 p.m. from Albert Whitted Park, traveling along Bayshore Drive toward Vinoy Park.
On Sunday, the celebration continues with a street fair in the Grand Central District, featuring vendors, food, entertainment and community partners.
Organizers looking ahead at funding challenges
While this year’s event is moving forward as planned, organizers say they are already keeping an eye on what comes next.
A new Florida law limits local governments from funding or supporting initiatives tied to diversity, equity and inclusion, but it will not take effect until January 1, 2027.
That means this year’s Pride festivities are largely unaffected, though uncertainty remains about future support.
At the same time, organizers say they have already seen some sponsors pull back, creating additional fundraising pressure as they prepare for next year.
“We are facing a really incredible fundraising year,” said St. Pete Pride President Byron Green-Calisch. “We’re asking people to donate $1… and that really changes the scope of things for us as an organization.”
Organizers say community support will be key in keeping the annual event going strong in the years ahead.
What to know before heading out
With large crowds expected throughout the weekend, city leaders are encouraging attendees to plan ahead.
Major road closures will begin Saturday. Bayshore Drive will shut down early in the afternoon ahead of the parade and remain closed into the evening.
On Sunday, Central Avenue in the Grand Central District will be closed for much of the day as the street fair takes place.
Parking garages like Sundial and SouthCore offer convenient access, but officials recommend using public transportation whenever possible. PSTA will provide free transit options, including the SunRunner, park-and-ride services and trolleys to help move people in and out of downtown.
“You don’t want to be trying to drive around and navigate through downtown this weekend,” Green-Calisch said. “I encourage people to look at the park-and-ride options or even ride your bike.”
Safety and security measures in place
St. Petersburg Police say there are no credible threats heading into the weekend, but officers will maintain a strong presence throughout the event.
Authorities will work with local, state and federal partners while monitoring crowds and activity across the city.
In previous years, that has included the use of drones, cameras and both visible and undercover officers to ensure public safety.
A weekend focused on celebration
Despite challenges ahead, organizers say the focus this weekend remains on celebration, visibility and community connection.
With a packed schedule of events, live entertainment and activities across the city, St. Pete Pride is expected to once again bring a colorful and vibrant energy to downtown.
Organizers are encouraging attendees to plan ahead, stay hydrated and come ready to celebrate.