LA Pride 2018 is less than a week away. In fact, many consider it pride week, or pride month, so there’s no shortage of festivities. The big day is Sunday, June 10th. The day can start with a fun local brunch before the LA Pride Parade hits Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood at 11AM. The parade usually travels from Crescent Heights to Doheny, so there’s plenty of viewing areas. If you plan on setting up chairs, arrive early enough to stake your claim.
LA Pride 2018
This year’s theme is #JUSTBE. Everyone is welcome so one doesn’t have to be in the LGBTQ community. By everyone, just no pets, unless they’re service animals.
The actual festival takes place on Saturday, June 9th from 12pm to 1am, and Sunday, June 10th from 11am-11pm. The main entrance is located on San Vicente at Santa Monica Blvd. If you’re more interested in the festival than the parade, arrive before the planned end of the parade around 2pm to avoid a mass of people.
Several stages for entertainment will be set up in the festival, including the Park Stage, Boulevard Stage (hip hop music) and the Plaza Stage (Latin music). Headliners this year include Tove Lo and Kehlani.
Tove Lo at LA Pride 2018
Parking will of course be a nightmare. Best to take public transportation or ridesharing services as close to the boulevard as you can get. It’s also a good idea to approach from the north on Sunset Blvd, or from the south along Melrose Ave. Better yet, get accommodations locally and walk to the event. Hotels that are walkable include The London West Hollywood Hotel, The Mondrian, The Jeremy, Petit Ermitage, The Ramada Plaza, The Chateau Marmont and The Andaz.
If you just want to be part of the crowd and people watch, there are literally dozens and dozens of bars and restaurants along the route.
For additional information on updated performers, events and general FAQ’s, visit the official LA Pride 2018 website.
For a list of local spots, visit Glitterati Tours Gay Friendly LA Page for direct links.
Enjoy!
