Philly Pride Festival Changes Venues, Adds Admission Costs

PHILADELPHIA — The Philly Pride Festival is changing venues and charging admission.

This year's festival, scheduled for June 7, will take place on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

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In past years, the festival has taken place in Philadelphia's Gayborhood, occupying multiple blocks and drawing thousands of attendees.

With the festival approaching 150,000 attendees, the new venue will improve safety and accessibility while adding space, according to Philly Pride 365, the organization that runs the festival.

"A festival approaching 150,000+ attendees across an open neighborhood footprint presents real challenges—particularly the inability to create a fully secure perimeter in the Gayborhood’s existing layout," the organization said in an FAQ about the move. "The Parkway allows for more structured planning, clearer entry points, better coordination with city services, and enhanced safety measures."

Accessing the festival grounds will cost $10 — another change to the event,which has been free in past years.

Multiple organizations will offer free access to the festival, according to Philly Pride 365. Those opportunities will be announced in May, along with VIP packages, ticket-purchase info and talent announcements.

This year's festival will introduce a "Maker's Market" featuring local LGBTQIA+ artists and small businesses.

"And don’t worry, the Gayborhood is still a huge part of the story, with programming and partnerships happening all pride week to keep that energy alive where it all began," Philly Pride 365 said while announcing the move.

See Philly Pride 365's announcement below: