St Pete Pride is a month-long celebration packed with parades, parties, live performances, family events, and vibrant community energy. It's a joyful mix of activism and cultural expression and the largest Pride event in the Southeast.
Thinking of visiting St. Pete during Pride?
Great idea! This isn't just a date on the calendar. It's one of the most meaningful and joy-filled events of the year. St Pete Pride is Florida's largest LGBTQIA+ celebration and ranks among the top 40 Pride events in the world.
St Pete Pride takes place in June, aligning with Pride Month celebrations across the U.S. and around the world.
I've been to Pride celebrations in Colorado, parades in Tennessee, and festivals across the U.S. (and beyond!), but St. Pete's version has its own special charm.
Maybe it's the creative mix of events. Maybe it's just that good ol' Florida atmosphere. Whatever it is, this is a must-visit event, whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an enthusiastic ally.
And yes, many of the events are also family-friendly.
In this blog, I'll walk you through the major events happening throughout this month-long celebration, plus a few extra tips to help you make the most of your time at St Pete Pride.
TL;DR: What You'll Find in This Guide to St Pete Pride
- The Origin and Accolades of St Pete Pride: How a canceled parade sparked Florida's biggest Pride celebration.
- Main Annual Events: A month full of parades, concerts, parties, family fun, and cultural highlights.
- Transportation Tips: How to navigate the city stress-free during Pride season.
- LGBTQ+ Scene & Around: Quick tips on neighborhoods, beaches, bars, and LGBTQ-owned businesses to check out.
At Resort Rentals, we offer a wide range of vacation homes with amenities like private pools, full kitchens, beachfront views, and pet-friendly stays—perfect for every kind of traveler.
We like to think of ourselves as local experts (if we may say so!), and our destination blog is packed with great tips. Whether you're looking for rainy-day activities or the best breakfast spots in town, you'll find plenty of insider picks and hidden gems to make your trip unforgettable.
Now, let's jump into this colorful celebration!
The Origin and Accolades of St Pete Pride
How It All Started
St Pete Pride began as a response to a canceled parade. When Tampa's Pride was shut down in 2003, St. Petersburg picked up the torch, transforming a small promenade into what is now Florida's largest Pride celebration.
Two Decades of Growth
Over 20 years later, it's become a month-long celebration that draws hundreds of thousands of attendees and over 500 volunteers each year.
In 2023, for instance, more than 348,000 people joined in—and $30,000 was given back to the community through grant funding. We call that a success!
More Than Just a Festival
Today, St Pete Pride is a nonprofit working year-round to support the LGBTQIA+ community through cultural events, education, and advocacy.
The goal? To build a lasting cultural institution that spreads a legacy of love—every single day.
Want to Get Involved?
Volunteer here and be part of the celebration from the inside out.
Main Events – What Happens Every Year at St. Pete Pride?
Every June, St. Pete doesn't just throw a party—it rolls out a month-long, community-wide expression of joy, protest, and togetherness.
From dancing all night to marching the streets and show your kids that love comes in many ways, here's a glimpse into some events that define Florida's biggest Pride celebration year after year:
1. Shades of Pride
Shades of Pride is more than a night out; you can think of it as a cultural moment. It puts Black LGBTQ+ voices center stage with a mix of music, art, ballroom brilliance, and community storytelling.
Why do I like it? It's bold and beautiful, as well as unapologetically celebratory, while still holding space for real conversations.
Highlights:
- Ballroom and voguing performances that bring down the house
- Panels and exhibits exploring Black queer identity
- A fashionable, high-energy crowd that knows how to show up
Is it family-friendly?
I'd say it's best for adults and older teens
Pro tip:
Dress to express and bring your full self—this is a space that welcomes it.
2. Mx St. Pete Pride Pageant
Imagine a pageant without the outdated rules. Mx St. Pete is open to all genders and all kinds of talent—from fierce drag to heartfelt monologues.
The energy in the room is electric, and the creativity on stage is next-level.
Highlights:
- Wildly creative costumes and runway looks
- Real talent, big heart, and total crowd involvement
- A night that blurs the line between performance and protest
Is it family-friendly?
Teens will probably love it; younger kids, maybe not
Pro tip:
Arrive early for good seats—and be ready to cheer your face off.
3. Kickoff Party
This is where the month officially begins, and you can feel it in the streets.
The Kickoff Party fills the Grand Central District with music, drag shows, food trucks, and a sea of people dancing under the Florida sky. It's part street festival, part Pride launchpad.
Highlights:
- Multiple stages with rotating performances
- Local food vendors and Pride merch
- One big communal exhale—everyone's just happy to be here
Is it family-friendly?
Teens will love it. Little ones might find it a bit much—especially if they're on the sensitive side or not fans of loud music and glitter.
Pro tip:
It's hot, it's crowded, and it's worth it. Bring water and comfy shoes.
4. Youth & Family Day
If you're coming with kids, this one's for you. Held in a shaded park, Youth & Family Day includes everything from bounce houses to drag queen storytime, plus booths from LGBTQ+ orgs. It's all very fun and educational!
Highlights:
- Interactive games, face painting, and hands-on crafts
- Family-safe performances and inclusive kids' activities
- A laid-back atmosphere with room to breathe
Is it family-friendly?
100%—this one is built for families
Pro tip:
Bring a blanket, snacks, and plan to stay a while. Trust me: kids won't want to leave!
5. Stonewall Reception
To me, this is one of Pride's most reflective and inspiring evenings. You can join an original Stonewall demonstrator, connect with advocates, and hear from the young changemakers carrying the movement forward today.
This elegant event brings together community leaders, government officials, sponsors, and allies for an evening of light bites, drinks, and moving tributes.
It's more on the formal side — yet heartfelt and powerful.
Highlights:
- Speeches from community leaders and local changemakers
- Historic exhibits or artwork honoring LGBTQ+ legacy
- A calm, elegant evening in the middle of a high-energy month
Is it family-friendly?
Not really—think cocktail hour meets tribute night
Pro tip:
Great networking opportunity—bring business cards if that's your scene.
Heads Up:
This is a ticketed event. You can buy tickets here.
6. GET NUDE: La Fête Noire
This is not your average Pride party. It's a nightlife experience rooted in Black queer joy and self-expression, with a dress code that dares you to show up and show out.
Think fashion, rhythm, and soul.
Highlights:
- DJs, dance floors, and a crowd that brings serious looks
- A celebration of body, identity, and boldness
- Powerful vibes and a very stylish guest list
Is it family-friendly?
Nope—strictly 18+
Pro tip:
Lean into the theme. The more expressive your outfit, the more you'll feel part of it.
7. Transtastic
This event is all about uplifting the voices of Trans and Non-Binary folks in St. Pete and beyond.
It's both celebratory and deeply affirming, offering performances and resources in a space that feels safe and seen.
Highlights:
- Trans-led music, poetry, and visual art
- Supportive, welcoming vibe that encourages connection
- Info booths with community services and resources
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, especially for teens
Pro tip:
It's a great idea to bring your pronoun pin—or grab one at the entrance.
8. Womyn in Comedy
A night of stand-up from queer women and nonbinary comics who aren't afraid to push buttons—or make you spit your drink laughing.
I love this one. It's smart, sharp, and full of wit.
Highlights:
- Personal, political, and laugh-out-loud hilarious sets
- A crowd that gets the jokes
- Intimate venue where the performers shine
Is it family-friendly?
Grown-ups only—expect spicy humor
Pro tip:
Buy tickets early. These shows sell out fast.
9. Friday Night Concert
It's Friday. The city's buzzing and the weekend's just getting started. The Friday Night Concert brings out headlining queer artists and a crowd that's ready to dance.
It's where you feel the momentum of Pride weekend hit its stride.
Highlights:
- Outdoor music stage and dancing under the stars
- Food vendors and beer tents
- A taste of festival energy before the big parade
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, especially for music-loving kids
Pro tip:
Bring chairs or a blanket, and stay for the full set—you'll want to.
10. Parade Day & Festival
This is it—the Pride parade and accompanying street fest that draws tens of thousands.
The floats, the flags, the love pouring into the streets... it's impossible not to be moved and not to have a great time.
Highlights:
- Huge, colorful parade with floats, bands, and local orgs
- A full-on street festival with food, drinks, and performances
- One of the most joyful, unified days of the year
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely. Many families line the parade route early
Pro tip:
Pack water, snacks, and maybe a folding chair—this one's a marathon.
11. Sunday Street Fair
After the parade, the celebration winds down with a chill day of community and connection.
The Sunday Street Fair is full of vendors, music, and last-chance Pride magic.
Highlights:
- Local artists and LGBTQ-owned businesses
- Informational booths, food trucks, and casual performances
- A great way to wrap the month with intention and pride
Is it family-friendly?
Yes—super welcoming for all ages
Pro tip:
Come ready to shop and say hello—you'll leave with goodies and new friends.
Transportation Tips for Pride Events
With crowds, street closures, and limited parking, getting to and around St. Pete Pride can be half the adventure—if you plan smart.
Here's how to skip the hassle and get straight to the fun, whether you're heading to the parade or hopping between events.
- Rideshare options (Uber, Lyft) and public transportation (PSTA) are strongly recommended, especially if you're drinking or want to avoid parking hassle.
- PSTA services like the SunRunner, Central Avenue Trolley, and Route 9 are typically free on parade day.
- Previous shuttle example: Free park-and-ride from St. Petersburg High School (11 a.m. – 11 p.m.) and free parking at Tropicana Field (6 a.m. – midnight) with easy access to SunRunner.
LGBTQ+ Scene in St. Pete & Beyond
The region embraces LGBTQ+ pride visibly and consistently—not just during Pride Month.
Here's the lowdown:
Gay-friendly neighborhoods? Absolutely.
The Grand Central District and Historic Kenwood in St. Pete are walkable, full of charm, and have a strong LGBTQ+ presence.
Gulfport is about 50% LGBTQ+, and Dunedin (just north of Clearwater) is also very inclusive.
A go-to beach? Try Sunset Beach.
This long-time favorite has an easygoing vibe, bathrooms, parking, and food nearby—perfect for a relaxed beach day.
Nightlife highlights? You've got options.
In St. Pete, check out:
And here are some great picks outside the city:
- Blur in Dunedin
- Quench Lounge in Largo
Want to shop local and LGBTQ-owned?
Browse:
- Atlas Body + Home for resort wear
- Pageboy for vintage finds and haircuts
- ZaZoo'd for playful home goods
- Out of the Closet for thrifting that supports a great cause.
Hungry?
So many LGBTQ-owned spots to try.
- Enjoy brunch at Uptown Eats
- Grab vegan treats at Valhalla Bakery
- Dig into something hearty at Stella's and Salty Nun
- In Dunedin, The Honu serves up Pacific-inspired dishes in a tiki-style setting.
Into arts and culture? You're in luck.
Tombolo Books regularly hosts LGBTQ-themed readings, and in Gulfport, OUT Arts & Culture champions queer creativity year-round.
Wondering Where to Stay During Pride Month in St. Pete Beach?
Pick from Resort Rentals' great selection!
What could make your Pride visit even better? A fantastic place to stay.
At Resort Rentals, we offer wonderful vacation homes with pools, BBQ areas, and more, allowing you to enjoy the beachy vibes with the whole family without spending much extra.
Visit our website to find your perfect rental and make the most of your time in St. Pete Beach and Tampa Bay.
A beautiful coastal escape is waiting for you. ☀️
