Gay pride parade st louis

Inthe Magnolia Committee sponsored the first St. Louis Gay and Lesbian Pride Celebration. It started as a walk for charity but soon grew into a uniting annual event. Through the years, Pride in St. Louis has evolved. From modest gatherings in Forest Park and student-organized picnics, the event gradually gained momentum and drew larger crowds.

This shift allowed the festival to expand significantly, drawing nearlyattendees by the late s and becoming one of the largest Pride events in the Midwest. Many people from other states would come to St. Louis to celebrate, as their cities did not have as big of a celebration. PrideFest also brings measurable economic benefits.

PrideFest Brings Colorful Celebrations and Inclusive Events to Downtown St. Louis

The annual festival and parade drive significant tourism, fill hotel rooms, boost restaurant traffic and increase retail sales. For many local vendors and artisans, PrideFest is among the most profitable weekends of the year. Inafter major sponsors withdrew, local businesses helped close the gap by donating proceeds, organizing fundraisers and encouraging patrons to contribute.

This grassroots support has reinforced the idea that Pride in St. Louis is not just a one-weekend celebration, but rather a city-wide, year-round commitment to equality, visibility and community. The story of Pride in St. Louis is ultimately one of resilience, partnership and progress. It reflects how meaningful change is built, not just through large events, but through everyday actions by small businesses, volunteers and citizens who believe in the power of inclusion.

PrideFest continues to grow, but its heart remains firmly rooted in the local community that helped build it. Pride in St. Recent News. Sweet Pride.