Portland, Oregon – The city is poised to host its 31st annual Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade, a cornerstone event for the region’s LGBTQIA2S+ community and its allies. Scheduled to take place at the scenic Tom McCall Waterfront Park on Southwest Naito Parkway, the festivities are set for the weekend of July 19-20, 2025.
Organized by the dedicated nonprofit Pride Northwest, this year’s celebration is centered around the inspiring theme, “Dream Big.” This theme aims to encapsulate the community’s aspirations, resilience, and vision for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Event Timing and Location Details
The heart of the celebration, the festival at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, will welcome attendees over two days. On Saturday, July 19, the gates will be open from Noon to 8 p.m., providing a full day of activities and entertainment. The event continues on Sunday, July 20, running from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The park, a central gathering place in the city, offers an ideal backdrop for the vibrant assembly.
Access points to the festival grounds are strategically located to facilitate attendee flow. Entrances will be situated at Southwest Ash Street, Pine Street, and Harvey Milk Street, making it convenient for guests arriving from various directions in downtown Portland.
Supporting the Celebration
While the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival remains free to attend, allowing broad access to the community celebration, organizers emphasize the importance of support for future events and initiatives. A $10 donation is suggested at the gate. These contributions are crucial for Pride Northwest, enabling the nonprofit to continue its vital work throughout the year and ensure the sustainability and growth of the annual Pride celebration.
A Diverse Array of Offerings
The festival grounds will be a hub of activity, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors. A key feature is the LGBTQIA2S+ Maker’s Market, which provides a platform for local artisans and creators to showcase and sell their crafts. This market not only supports community businesses but also offers unique items reflecting diverse talents and perspectives.
Alongside the market, attendees can explore offerings from local restaurants and drink vendors. This curated selection ensures a variety of culinary delights and beverages are available, allowing guests to enjoy flavors from Portland’s vibrant food scene while celebrating.
Entertainment Highlights
Live entertainment is a major draw of the Portland Pride festival, bringing energy and performance art to the waterfront. The 2025 event features a lineup of notable performers set to take the stage. Scheduled artists include the acclaimed drag performer Landon Cider, powerhouse vocalist Frenchie Davis, veteran comedian and actor Jason Stuart, and the dynamic band 76th Street. Their performances are expected to contribute significantly to the celebratory atmosphere, offering something for a wide range of tastes.
Intentional Scheduling
Pride Northwest has intentionally scheduled the annual celebration for the weekend in July. This careful planning is undertaken to avoid scheduling conflicts with other significant Rose City events that occur earlier in the summer, specifically Juneteenth and the Delta Park Powwow. By selecting a distinct weekend, the organizers aim to maximize attendance and participation from all segments of the community and visitors, ensuring that these important cultural events each have their dedicated time and space.
The Significance of 31 Years
Marking its 31st iteration, the Portland Pride celebration stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and growing visibility of the LGBTQIA2S+ community in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Over three decades, the event has evolved from a grassroots march into a large-scale festival and parade, providing a critical space for advocacy, celebration, remembrance, and community building. The 2025 event, guided by the “Dream Big” theme, looks forward while honoring this rich history.
As Portland prepares to host this major event, the Tom McCall Waterfront Park will transform into a lively, inclusive environment, inviting everyone to participate, celebrate diversity, and support the goals of Pride Northwest and the broader LGBTQIA2S+ community.
