Long Beach Pride 2025 Kicks Off This Weekend

Here’s What You Need to Know
Long Beach Pride 2025, the spirit of celebration, diversity, and unity returns to Long Beach this weekend as the 42nd annual Long Beach Pride Parade and Festival takes center stage. One of the city’s most beloved traditions, this vibrant LGBTQ+ event will unfold across two days along the scenic downtown waterfront.

For the second year in a row, the City of Long Beach is leading the coordination of Sunday’s Pride Parade along Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach Pride 2025 is scheduled for the morning of May 18. Meanwhile, the weekend-long festival, hosted by the nonprofit Long Beach Pride, promises high-energy performances, cultural showcases, and a powerful message of inclusion.

Drawing thousands each year, the event marks the first major Pride celebration of the season, setting the tone for months of festivities honoring love, identity, and togetherness. This year’s theme, “The Power of Community,” speaks to the collective strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community in Long Beach and beyond.

Amid rising national concerns over anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislative efforts 48 anti-trans bills have been passed so far in 2025 Long Beach continues to stand in strong support of its LGBTQ+ residents. The city has officially designated itself a sanctuary for transgender individuals and broader LGBTQ+ communities.

Long Beach Pride 2025 Kicks Off This Weekend

Following a request for support from the nonprofit in 2024, the city stepped in to help sustain the parade. This year, it returns as the event’s official host, joined by the Port of Long Beach and Council District Two as co-sponsors.

“Long Beach Pride 2025, the Pride Parade is more than a celebration it’s a reflection of our city’s heart,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “It symbolizes love, unity, and the power of being true to oneself. We’re proud to stand with our LGBTQ+ community and continue building a future rooted in compassion and inclusion.”

The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on Sunday, featuring grand marshals, colorful floats, marching groups, and organizations from across the region. A variety of community leaders and advocates will be honored throughout the event, including:

Morris Kight Political Grand Marshal: Councilmember Cindy Allen, recognized for her steadfast advocacy.
Whitey Littlefield Community Bridge Building Grand Marshal: Carolyn Caldwell.
Robert Crow and Celebrity Grand Marshal: Jennifer Kumiyama.
Judith Doyle Grand Marshal: Pastor Tony Carreras, Christ Chapel Long Beach.
Robert Garcia Youth Grand Marshal: Alex Malleis-Sternberg.
Legacy Honorees: The late Isa Rached and founding members of “It’s a Drag to Give” Debra Kahookele, Josie Quiros, and Rocio Rached for their community service and fundraising efforts.

Councilmember Allen emphasized the event’s significance in the face of growing challenges: “Long Beach has always led the charge when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. This parade is a symbol of unity at a time when standing together is more important than ever.”

The parade is free and open to all, and viewers can also catch it live on NBC Channel 4 and Telemundo, or stream it via NBCLA.com, Telemundo52.com, and their mobile apps.

While the city oversees the parade, the nonprofit Long Beach Pride is dedicated to delivering a spectacular festival experience. Taking place at Marina Green Park from noon to 8 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, the festival offers a dynamic lineup across three stages. Guests can expect:

Live music from local artists and headlining performers
Drag performances from Jewels Productions’ Drag Show Extravaganza
A Ballroom Dance-Off courtesy of the House of Long Beach
Performances by Latinx rock group Mamboson
Over 150 vendors offering food, drinks, and artisan goods

The TransVisibility area returns this year, shining a spotlight on the transgender community with immersive art installations, cultural experiences, health resources, and free testing services.

Though headline acts have yet to be revealed, organizers promise a weekend full of joy, empowerment, and unforgettable moments.