Portland Pride 2025 is set to light up the city with vibrant energy, inclusivity, and unforgettable experiences. Known for its commitment to diversity and community spirit, Portland’s Pride Festival goes beyond the parade — offering a weekend full of music, performances, and celebrations that honor the LGBTQIA+ community.
When and Where is Portland Pride 2025?
Portland Pride takes place the weekend of July 19–20, 2025, at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland along the Willamette River.
The Portland Pride Parade kicks off on Sunday, July 20 at 11:00 AM, from the North Park Blocks and ending on Naito Parkway at the festival.
Schedule of Key Events and Activities
Friday, July 18, 2025
- Pride Kickoff Party (6:00 PM – Midnight) — Holocene
Live DJs, dancing, drag shows, and cocktails to kick off the weekend.
Saturday, July 19, 2025
- Portland Pride Waterfront Festival (Noon – 8:00 PM) — Tom McCall Waterfront Park
150+ booths, live music, drag shows, and food vendors. - Family Pride Zone (Noon – 6:00 PM) — Tom McCall Waterfront Park
A family-friendly area with crafts, face painting, and story time. - Dyke March Portland (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM) — Starts at Portland State University
March ends at the waterfront.
Sunday, July 20, 2025
- Portland Pride Parade (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Thousands march through downtown Portland. - Portland Pride Waterfront Festival Day 2 (Noon – 6:00 PM) — Tom McCall Waterfront Park
More music, food trucks, and community booths. - Pride Tea Dance & Closing Party (4:00 PM – 9:00 PM) — CC Slaughters
End the weekend with dancing and DJs.
Tips for Attending Portland Pride 2025
- Arrive early for prime parade viewing spots.
- Use public transit or bike — parking is limited downtown.
- Pack sunscreen, water, and comfy shoes.
- All are welcome — Pride is inclusive of all ages and identities.
Why Portland Pride Matters
Since 1976, Portland Pride—organized by Pride Northwest—has celebrated the resilience, visibility, and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community. It continues to foster belonging and solidarity through education, advocacy, and celebration.
A Brief Histrory of Pride!
Gay Pride, often celebrated through vibrant parades, festivals, and community events, is rooted in a powerful history of activism, resilience, and the fight for equal rights. The origins of Pride trace back to the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. A popular gathering place for LGBTQ+ individuals, the Stonewall Inn became the flashpoint for a series of spontaneous demonstrations after a police raid targeted the bar. Fed up with constant harassment and discrimination, patrons and community members stood their ground — sparking the Stonewall Riots, a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Following the riots, activists across the United States organized to demand greater civil rights and societal acceptance. On the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall uprising, the first official Pride marches were held in New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago in June 1970. These events marked the beginning of what is now recognized globally as Pride Month, celebrated every June to honor LGBTQ+ history and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
Over time, Pride has evolved into both a celebration of identity and a continuing act of activism. While early Pride events were heavily centered around political protests and calls for legal reforms, today’s festivals blend advocacy with celebration — showcasing music, art, performances, and visibility for the diverse spectrum of LGBTQ+ communities.
Pride events are not just commemorations of the past; they are reminders of the progress made and the work still to be done. From advancing marriage equality to protecting trans rights and fostering inclusive spaces, the spirit of Pride remains deeply connected to the themes of love, diversity, resilience, and community.
Whether in large cities or small towns, Pride serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for millions around the world.
Mark your calendar and prepare to experience one of Portland’s most colorful and meaningful weekends of the year. 🌈
Be sure to visit our Pride Page for other great pride events!