Portland’s biggest LGBTQIA+ celebration returns to downtown this weekend as Portland Pride brings two days of festivities, community events and one of the state’s largest annual parades to the waterfront.
The annual Portland Pride Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, featuring live entertainment, food and drink vendors, community organizations and a maker’s market showcasing local artists and businesses. The weekend culminates with the Portland Pride Parade on Sunday morning, when tens of thousands of people are expected to line downtown streets in celebration.
This year’s theme, “Made with Pride,” celebrates creativity and entrepreneurship within the LGBTQ2SIA+ community while also honoring Portland Pride’s roots as a protest movement.
When is Portland Pride?
The Portland Pride Festival runs for two days along the downtown waterfront.
Festival hours are noon to 8 p.m. Saturday, July 18, and 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 19.
The Portland Pride Parade begins at 11 a.m. Sunday.
Where is Portland Pride?
The festival takes place at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 98 S.W. Naito Parkway.
The parade will begin in the North Park Blocks before making its way through downtown Portland and ending at the waterfront festival. Attendees should expect large crowds throughout downtown, particularly Sunday morning as parade-goers gather along the route.
What can people expect at the festival?
Portland Pride is more than a parade. The waterfront festival serves as a gathering place for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, offering a mix of entertainment, advocacy, shopping and food.
Festivalgoers can expect live performances from local and national entertainers, community and nonprofit booths, food and beverage vendors and opportunities to connect with LGBTQIA+ organizations from across the region.
The event also includes family-friendly activities, making it a welcoming place for attendees of all ages.
Who’s performing?
Performers announced for this year’s festival include drag entertainer Lushious Massacr, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum DeJa Skye and performer Tenderoni.
Organizers said additional performers and entertainment will take the stage throughout the weekend, including local headliner Boujee Cherry.
Shop the Maker’s Market
One of the festival’s featured attractions is the LGBTQIA2S+ Maker’s Market.
The market showcases independent artists, makers and small businesses, with vendors offering everything from jewelry and photography to paintings, handcrafted goods and other locally made products.
Food and drink options
Visitors will find a variety of food and beverage vendors throughout the festival grounds, along with plenty of nearby restaurants, bars and cafes in downtown Portland.
Many local businesses throughout the city also celebrate Pride weekend with special events and promotions.
How much does Portland Pride cost?
Admission to Portland Pride is donation-based.
Organizers suggest a $10 donation at the entrance, but stress that no one will be turned away if they are unable to contribute.
Fast passes and VIP tickets for the concerts and performances are available online at varying prices.
Getting there and parking
Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead, particularly on Sunday when parade-related crowds can make downtown travel more challenging.
TriMet MAX light rail lines, buses and the Portland Streetcar all provide access to the waterfront and downtown core. Those driving should expect heavier-than-normal traffic and limited parking near the festival grounds.
Several downtown SmartPark garages offer parking within walking distance of the event, though spaces may fill quickly during peak hours. Arriving early or using public transportation may help visitors avoid delays.
Accessibility
Portland Pride organizers have implemented a variety of accessibility measures throughout the festival and parade.
Features include designated ADA parade viewing areas, accessible festival entrances, wheelchair-friendly pathways connecting major event spaces and American Sign Language interpreters at both the main and north stages. Accessible transportation options are also available for attendees traveling to and from the festival.
Know before you go
Attendees should consider bringing sunscreen, a reusable water bottle and comfortable walking shoes, particularly if spending several hours at the waterfront.
Arriving early is recommended for those hoping to secure a prime parade viewing location. Visitors should also be prepared for large crowds and allow extra travel time when heading downtown.
If you go
When: July 18-19
Festival hours: Noon to 8 p.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
Parade: 11 a.m. Sunday
Where: Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 98 S.W. Naito Parkway
Cost: Suggested $10 donation; no one turned away for inability to pay
Theme: “Made with Pride”
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source portlandtribune.com ’
