Happy Pride Month! June is a time to recognize the rich history of the LGBTQ+ liberation movement, and to celebrate with the parades and special events that mark this month in many places across the country and world.
If you’re thinking about attending your first Pride event this year, you might be feeling many different emotions. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Pride began as a protest. The first Pride march took place in 1970 to honor the one year anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion, when LGBTQ+ people in NYC fought back against police harassment and discrimination.
Today, Pride continues to celebrate LGBTQ+ joy and resilience while also uplifting the LGBTQ+ community. From parades to parties to protests, the month of June is filled with an electric array of events all meant to commemorate LGBTQ+ history.
Going to Pride for the first time? Here’s what to know.
- Go with friends
Pride can be an incredible experience, but large crowds can also feel overwhelming. Going with friends can help you feel more comfortable, especially if it’s your first time. Consider having a “Pride buddy” someone you can check in with throughout the day.
Going alone? That’s okay too! Pride is one of the easiest places to meet people, connect with community, and feel less alone.
- Do some research before you go
A little planning can make a huge difference. Before heading out check event times, and schedules. As well as transportation and parking options through the day. Check if there are accessible public restrooms, water refilling stations or food to buy. Many cities across California host Pride events, below are a few in major cities.
Events through California 2026.
- Sonoma County Pride: June 1-3
- Fresno Pride: June 6
- WeHo Pride: June 5-7
- Central Coast Pride: June 7
- Laguna Beach Pride: June 12
- Healdsburg Pride: June 13-14
- Sacramento Pride: June 13-14
- LA Pride: June 4 -14
- San Francisco Pride: June 27- 28
- San Diego Pride: July 11-19
- Oakland Pride: August 16
- Silicon Valley Pride: August 29- 30
- Pride Under the Pines: October 3rd
- OC Pride: October 10
- Palm Springs Pride: November 6-8
Pride is often a family-friendly event, check out your local city to find youth LBGTQ+ events near you! This could include daytime dance parties, sign making or crafting events, or drag story times.
- Pack your Pride survival kit
You’re probably going to be outside, walking around, and spending hours exploring. Here are a few essentials:
- Snacks or energy bars
- Refillable water bottle
- Narcan and other safety tools
- Sunblock/ Hand sanitizer/Hat/Sunglasses
- Wallet with ID and cash for emergencies
- A fully charged phone and portable charge
- Plan your Pride parade outfit
This is part of the fun in Pride celebrations. Remember to keep comfort a priority since you will probably be on your feet a lot. Check the forecast for Pride Day, and dress in whatever makes your feel confident and expresses your identity.
- Safer Sex is the Best Sex
Pride can be a place where people make connections. Maybe you meet a new crush. Maybe you exchange social media handles, or things become more than a friendship. Just remember that safer sex is part of taking care of yourself and your partners.
What safer sex can look like:
- Lube
- Doxy PEP
- Daily PrEP
- STI testing (and treatment when necessary!)
- Barrier methods like condoms, dental damn, or gloves
- Open and honest communication with sexual partners
Can I celebrate Pride without being “out?”
Yes! You don’t have to be out to attend Pride. Many people attend Pride while they’re still figuring out their identity. Many openly LGBTQ+ people are eager to show you that there’s a vibrant and diverse community here to love, accept, and fight for you. You don’t have to disclose your identity to anyone in order to take part in Pride. Others may not be ready or able to share that part of themselves with people in their lives yet. Pride is for you too. If attending a large event doesn’t feel safe or comfortable right now, that’s okay. Move at your own pace.
Pride is ultimately about community.
🌈 As a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, Pride is about connection. It’s about finding people who understand you. It’s about celebrating who you are.
Add your voice to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Listen to advocates and community leaders to learn. Experience the empowerment that comes from standing in solidarity with others. Most of all enjoy yourself, you belong here.