Wait, isn’t Pride in June? While June is internationally recognized as Pride month, San Diego likes to be a bit different…so we’re doing mid-July! This year, Pride week in San Diego takes place between July 16 and July 20 – and we have no time to waste! From the much-awaited Pride Parade to the Pride Festival and so much more, here’s what you can’t miss this Pride in San Diego.
1. Light up the Cathedral
On the first night of Pride week, this legendary tradition, which celebrates 10 years in 2025, kicks things off. The event takes place at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, where there’s a service, followed by lighting up the church with all the pretty rainbow colors.
When: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 , 7 PM
Where: St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral (2728 6th Avenue, enter on 5th Avenue side)
2. Dance.Disrupt.Repeat
This is the official San Diego Pride’s launch party…so the start of an amazing weekend! Get dancing with DJ Kiki and DJ Von Kiss. Tickets star at $44.
When: Jul 17, 2025, 8:00 pm – 1:00 am
Where: 3683 5th Ave
3. Spirit of Stonewall Awards
The annual Spirit of Stonewall Rally kicks off Pride weekend and commemorates the Stonewall Riots of 1969, when the LGBTQIA+ community fought back against state-sanctioned police violence and discrimination. It annually accepts nominations from the community to recognize individuals, organizations, and groups who have contributed significantly to the LGBTQIA+ community through their leadership, activism, and fundraising efforts.
When: Friday, July 18, 2025, 6 PM
Where: 1600 Block University Ave., San Diego, CA 92103
4. Pride Block Party
The Pride of Hillcrest Block Party begins on Friday night, with the Spirit of Stonewall Rally mentioned above, followed by a massive dance party at 7 PM. This Friday night event also features DJs Jinx Mirage and Kinky Loops, WTF speak-easy (craft cocktails), and a dynamic photo booth.
When: Friday, July 18, 2025, 7 PM
Where: Pride Plaza, Hillcrest
5. UCC Annual Pride BBQ
Join University Christian Church for their Annual Pride Community BBQ. Enjoy free food, entertainment, and a festive kick-off to Pride Festival Weekend. You’ll find them right across from the DMV and Post Office.
When: Jul 18, 2025, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Where: 3900 Cleveland Avenue
6. Pride Parade San Diego
Yesss, the main event! The San Diego Pride Parade is the largest single-day civic event in the region. and among the largest Prides in the United States. Every year, it attracts over 250,000 people! You can cheer on colorful floats, parade walkers, and even motorcycles, as we all celebrate and honor the LGBTQIA+ community. The route it approximately 1.5 miles long.
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Hillcrest, Richmond & University
7. Pride Festival
The beloved Pride Festival closes the week in style – with an awesome party! It returns to Balboa Park with community resources, queer-owned businesses, and entertainment zones. This year’s theme is “Unbreakable Pride. Unshakeable Power.”
Kehlani will headline on Saturday, and Kimpetras on Sunday, but there will be over 100 artists to entertain and inspire you. You can find the full schedule here.
It’s important to note that your participation in these events helps non-profit organizations to support LGBTQIA+ advocacy, community programs, and philanthropic efforts year-round.
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025, 12 PM – 10 PM | Sunday, July 20, 2025, 12 PM – 9 PM
Where: Marston Point., Balboa Park (6th Ave. & Laurel St.)