San Francisco Pride 2025

If you’ve never experienced San Francisco Pride, this is your sign. San Francisco Pride 2025 is set to take over the city on June 28-29, turning the streets into a sea of rainbow flags, music, and sheer joy. No matter if you’re here for the legendary San Francisco Pride Parade, the dance parties, or just the contagious energy of pride weekend, this is your moment to celebrate, support, and shine.

This year’s theme, "Queer Joy is Resistance," is a reminder that simply existing and celebrating as your authentic self is an act of power. And with over a million people expected to attend, SF is about to be louder, prouder, and more colorful than ever.

A Little History of SF Pride

Before SF became the Pride capital of the West Coast, it was the home of some of the most pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ history. It all started in 1970, just one year after the Stonewall Riots, when a group of brave activists marched down Polk Street in the first-ever San Francisco Gay Pride event. The following year, the San Francisco Pride Parade officially took off, and the rest is history.

Oh, and let’s not forget – San Francisco is where the rainbow flag was born! Artist Gilbert Baker first raised the now-iconic flag here in 1978 and made it the universal symbol of Pride. So, if you’re waving yours at Market Street, you’re carrying on a historic legacy.

What to Expect at SF Pride 2025

San Francisco doesn’t do Pride halfway. The city goes all in with a jam-packed weekend of events, parties, and activism. Here’s what’s happening:

The San Francisco Pride Parade (June 29)

• The pride parade is the crown jewel of pride weekend and kicks off at 10:30 AM at Beale Street.
• Expect over 200 contingents of colorful floats, performers, activists, and even some surprise celebrity appearances.
• The parade marches down Market Street, ending at Market and 9th Street, where the real party begins.

Civic Center Pride Celebration (June 28-29)

• The Civic Center Plaza will be transformed into a massive festival featuring live music, drag performances, and speeches from LGBTQ+ activists.
• The main stage will host some of the biggest names in entertainment, so get ready to dance.
• With over 300 exhibitors, this is your chance to support LGBTQ+ organizations, small businesses, and allies.

The Best Pride Parties in SF

• Castro Street Party – Because Pride in SF isn’t complete without a wild night in the Castro.
• Official SF Pride VIP Party – Hosted at a secret venue, this is where the A-listers and influencers go to celebrate.
• Leather Alley – A must-visit for anyone interested in San Francisco’s iconic leather and BDSM scene.

One of the best things about San Francisco Pride 2025? It’s completely free to attend! There are no tickets required to join the San Francisco Pride Parade or the Civic Center festival, so you can celebrate without worrying about costs.

However, a suggested donation of $1 to $5 at the entry gates helps support non-profit community partners and ensures that Pride remains an inclusive, accessible event for everyone. Since 1997, these contributions have raised nearly $3 million for LGBTQ+ organizations, advocacy groups, and local charities.

So if you can, drop a few bucks at the gate – it’s a small price to pay to keep the spirit of SF Pride alive and thriving.

How to Get to San Francisco Pride 2025

If you’re heading to San Francisco Pride, expect the city to be packed. Here’s how to get around:

• Public transit: Take BART or Muni to Civic Center or Powell Street stations to get to the heart of the festival.
• Rideshare & taxis: Expect higher rates and longer wait times – Pride takes over the city.
• Driving? Don’t. Parking is a nightmare, and many streets will be blocked. Take public transport or rideshare instead.

SF Pride 2025 Bag Policy

Here’s what you need to know:

Prohibited Items:

• Large backpacks or luggage
• Alcohol (unless purchased at the event)
• Glass bottles, fireworks, or any hazardous materials
• Anything that could block someone’s view of the parade (sorry, no massive signs or banners)

Allowed Items:

• Small bags and fanny packs
• Sealed water bottles
• Sunscreen (trust me, you’ll need it)

Pro tip: Security lines can be long, so get there early to avoid delays.

SF Pride 2025 Bag Storage

Keep Your Hands Free with Bounce

Want to celebrate without dragging your bags around? Bounce offers secure, affordable bag storage near Civic Center, the Castro, and key Pride locations.

• Affordable rates – Store your bags for $4.10 per day.
• Safe & secure – Each booking includes $10,000 in protection.
• Flexible bookings – Plans changed? No problem. Cancel before check-in for free.

How to Use Bounce at SF Pride 2025

• Find a location – Use the Bounce app or website to pick a storage spot near the parade or festival.
• Drop off your bags – Check in, leave your stuff, and go hands-free.
• Enjoy SF Pride! Pick up your bags when you're done celebrating.

Tips to Make the Most of SF Pride 2025

• Arrive Early – The best spots for the parade route fill up fast. Get there early if you want a front-row view.
• Stay Hydrated – San Francisco’s weather can be unpredictable. Some years, it’s foggy and cool; others, it’s blazing hot. Bring water and sunscreen!
• Dress to Impress – Pride is your time to shine! Whether you’re rocking full drag, rainbow gear, or just a comfy outfit, be ready for lots of photos and compliments.
• Know Where to Party – The Castro, SoMa, and the Mission are the go-to neighborhoods for wild afterparties. Plan accordingly!
• Respect the Space – SF Pride is a celebration AND a protest. Respect people's identities, pronouns, and personal space.

From the epic parade on Market Street to non-stop parties and live performances, San Francisco Pride 2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest LGBTQ+ events of the year.

Grab your friends, flags, and fabulous outfits – it’s time to march, dance, and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in the city that started it all.

Happy Pride, San Francisco!