St. Petersburg shines as a beacon of LGBTQ+ celebration, most notably during the annual St Pete Pride Festival. Recognized as the largest pride event in the Southeastern United States, St Pete Pride, particularly in June, transforms the city into a vibrant hub of activity. Rainbow flags become a common sight throughout communities, from bustling cities to charming small towns, all joining in the spirit of Pride Month with a diverse array of events. Beyond St. Pete, be sure to explore the equally welcoming celebrations of Dunedin Pride and Gulfport Pride, both happening in June and reinforcing the region’s inclusive atmosphere year-round.
Navigating St Pete Pride events, especially the main parade, is made easier with smart transportation choices. Opting for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft is highly recommended, especially if you intend to enjoy alcoholic beverages. Public transportation is another convenient and efficient option. PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) operates on its regular schedules throughout June, and you can easily access PSTA schedules and maps for detailed route information. If driving is your preference, it’s wise to plan ahead for parking in St. Pete given the large crowds expected at Pride events.
On the day of the St Pete Pride Parade, PSTA typically offers several free transportation options, enhancing accessibility to the festivities. These often include the SunRunner, a rapid transit bus service, the Central Avenue Trolley, and PSTA Route 9. Route 9 is particularly useful as it serves St. Pete High School, a designated location for free shuttle services to the parade route.
In 2024, attendees benefited from free park-and-ride services from St. Petersburg High School, located at 2501 5th Ave North. Shuttle buses operated from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., providing seamless transport to and from the event. Additionally, the Tampa Bay Rays offered free parking at Tropicana Field in lots 5, 6, and 7 from 6 a.m. until midnight on parade day. This parking site provided convenient access to the SunRunner station at 13th Street South, further expanding transportation options. For those planning for future events, it’s important to note that these specific parking and transportation details are from 2024 and will be updated for the upcoming Pride festival as soon as new information becomes available.
For more comprehensive details on parking, transportation, and maximizing your enjoyment of Pride events, be sure to visit the dedicated St Pete Pride Festival page. This resource is continually updated to provide the latest information, ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable St Pete Pride experience.
