June 14, 2017
Content sponsored by
J. Fusco/Visit Philadelphia™
A festive parade, the signature event, runs from the Gayborhood to Penn’s Landing.
It's almost time for the 29th annual Philly Pride Parade and Festival. Each year, the event attracts more than 25,000 people, making it the largest LGBT pride celebration in the region.
Below is a guide to the event with date, time, location and helpful tips.
On Sunday, June 18, the parade will begin in the Gayborhood at 13th and Locust streets at 11:30 a.m.
The parade will head down Locust Street, turn on Seventh Street and continue down Market Street to the judging area near the Liberty Bell.
From there, the parade with continue down Market, turn at Front Street and end at the Great Plaza at Penn's Landing, where the festival will take place.
While the parade won't get there until 1 p.m., festivalgoers can head in as early as noon to score spots near the stage.
Megan Mullally and Stephanie Hunt, who have combined forces to become Nancy and Beth, will be this year's headliner. Mullally is famous for playing Karen on the popular sitcom "Will and Grace."
Adding to the festival will be other entertainment, food, drinks, local vendors, community groups and dancing.
Wristbands, which are $15, are needed to enter the festival, but the parade is free to attend. They can be purchased at the Great Plaza gates or at Second and Market streets during the parade.
On Friday, June 16, there will be a kickoff party in the Gayborhood. Head to 12th and Locust streets between 6 and 10 p.m. for food, drinks and discounted festival wristbands.
Party attendees can avoid the crowds buying wristbands day-of and save $5.
The easiest way to get to the festival (if you don't want to walk) is by taking public transportation, since parking at the Great Plaza is limited due to Summerfest.
Take the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line to the Second Street stop. From there, walk over the Market Street Bridge. The Great Plaza at Penn's Landing will be straight ahead.
Biking is another option. There is an Indego Bike Share station at Foglietta Plaza. It's located near the festival at Columbus Boulevard and Dock Street.
Colorful, eye-catching outfits are always welcome at the parade and festival, but leave backpacks at home. Bags will be checked, which can lead to a delay getting through the gate.
