Hampton Roads PrideWeekend 2026

About the event

Hampton Roads Pride Weekend is a three-day regional celebration taking place June 26–28, 2026 across Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Virginia. For more than three decades, this annual gathering has reflected the 757’s deep commitment to uplifting, protecting, and celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community through music, art, advocacy, education, and joy. What began in 1989 as a 200-person potluck picnic at Northside Park in Norfolk has grown into one of the largest Pride celebrations in the Commonwealth of Virginia. From the early “Out in the Park” gatherings at Mount Trashmore and Lakewood Park to today’s waterfront festivals at Town Point Park and the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Hampton Roads Pride has continued to evolve while staying rooted in community. Friday | Pride Block Party Pride Weekend begins Friday night with the Pride Block Party — an 18+ high-energy dance experience bringing nightlife, culture, DJs, and community together in the heart of downtown Norfolk. This kickoff celebration sets the tone for a full weekend of visibility and unity. Saturday | Pride Boat Parade + PrideFest Saturday morning features the nation’s first Pride Boat Parade, since 2011 rainbow -decorated vessels sail proudly along the historic Elizabeth River past thousands gathered at PrideFest. The celebration continues at PrideFest at Town Point Park, our flagship outdoor festival welcoming tens of thousands of attendees annually. PrideFest features: - National and local live entertainment - Community resource organizations - LGBTQ+ history activations - Family Pride programming - Interactive art experiences - Food vendors and local businesses - Community supported VIP experiences - Inclusive spaces for all ages From Drag artists to weddings, advocacy leaders to community builders.PrideFest reflects the diversity and power of our entire tidewater region. Sunday | Pride at the Beach We close the weekend at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront with Pride at the Beach, a sunset celebration filled with music, food, and your chosen family. With live DJs, local + national talent, and hawt photo moments, it’s the perfect coastal finale to Pride Weekend.

Dates

Jun 26, 2026 · 7:00 PM - Jun 28, 2026 · 11:00 PM(GMT-05:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

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Location

Virginia, United States

113 Waterside Dr, Norfolk, Virginia 23510, United States

Directions

Parking instructions

**Norfolk Parking Garages: Waterside Garage (50 Martin’s Lane) Main Street Garage (230 E Main St.) MacArthur Center Garage (300 Monticello Ave.) **Virginia Beach Parking Garages: 31st Street Garage Virginia Beach Convention Center (Bus Ride to Park) **Alternative Options: Limited street parking and ride-sharing drop-off zones near the park. Early arrival is recommended.

Health & safety

-Designated first aid stations and hydration zones. -On-site security and bag check policy for all attendees. -ASL interpreters for performances on the main stages. -Wheelchair-accessible pathways and seating areas. Prohibited Items: - Alcohol - Glass Containers - Illegal Weapons or firearms* - Lasers - Fireworks -Full face coverings that obscure identity, except when part of approved costumes or with prior authorization. Medical and religious coverings are always permitted. - Pop Up Tents - Dogs/animals (service dogs/animals ONLY) All bags and coolers are subject to search. *As the official event organizer and park renter, Hampton Roads Pride prohibits the possession of firearms within the festival footprint. Signage will be clearly displayed at all entrances. Enforcement will be managed by our security team, with support from the host city Police department if needed.

Artists, vendors & exhibitors applications

Interested in applying:

2 active applications

Pride Boat Parade

Deadline: May 17, 2026

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Join us for the Iconic Pride Boat Parade, a historic and vibrant centerpiece of Hampton Roads PrideFest, taking place on the Elizabeth River! Celebrating the region’s maritime heritage and its role as the nation's first-ever Pride Boat Parade, this colorful procession is a testament to our community’s diversity, inclusion, and unity.

Submission is free upon approval, the Parade kicks off at 12:00 Noon, following the presentation of colors and the National Anthem. Leading the procession will be the USCG Auxiliary, followed by the Grand Marshal, Community Award Winners, the iconic American Rover as a featured vessel, and a fleet of vibrant community vessels.

Decorate your boat and join the celebration.

Entertainment (Artist) Application

Deadline: Mar 30, 2026

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We’re always excited to showcase artists who embody the spirit of Pride! Hampton Roads Pride proudly presents an all-star lineup every June. Now, more than ever, we build our entertainment lineup to showcase local and statewide talent and entertainers, especially from within the LGBTQ+ community. We are continually working to create new and engaging opportunities to do just that!

This year, the 3-Day Hampton Roads Pride Festival will take place from Friday, June 26, to Sunday, June 28, 2026:

FRI, JUNE 26, 2026 | PRIDE BLOCK PARTY | 6 PM - 11 PM

After-party @ Waterside District | 11 PM - UNTIL

SAT, JUNE 27, 2026 | PRIDEFEST | 12 NOON - 7 PM

Boat Parade along Elizabeth River | 12 NOON

SUN, JUNE 28, 2026 | PRIDE AT THE BEACH | 2 PM - 9 PM

Pride March along VB Boardwalk | 2 PM

We’re seeking a diverse mix of talent—DJs, bands, Emcees, singer-songwriters, drag performers, dancers, and more! Whether you’re a fresh face or a seasoned local or regional act, we want to hear from you.

Sponsors

Interested in applying:

1 active application

Pride Weekend SPONSOR Interest

Deadline: Jun 01, 2026

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Hampton Roads Pride’s annual weekend celebration brings together thousands across our region in a shared commitment to visibility, inclusion, and community pride. As one of the largest LGBTQIA+ gatherings in the Commonwealth, Pride Weekend represents an opportunity to invest in meaningful impact while demonstrating support for diversity and equity in Hampton Roads. By partnering with us, your organization helps create safe, affirming spaces and supports programming that uplifts our community year-round. Please Note: This form is for organizations interested in sponsorship and partnership opportunities only. If you are interested in vending (tented booth, food vendor, marketplace, etc.), vendor applications will be released separately. Please await the official vendor application announcement.

Volunteers

Interested in applying:

1 active application

Team Leader

Deadline: Mar 30, 2026

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Thank you for your interest in becoming a Department Lead with Hampton Roads Pride! Hampton Roads Pride is a collaborative, volunteer-driven non-profit organization. Our Department Leads play a critical role in making our events a success, working together to ensure an inclusive and vibrant Pride Month. As a Department Lead, you will oversee assigned department coordinating a team of volunteers to ensure that all logistics, activities, and services run smoothly. Your leadership, dedication, and commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community will directly contribute to the success of Pride Month.

Other applications

Interested in applying:

2 active applications

757 Pride March Registration

Deadline: Jun 21, 2026

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The Hampton Roads (757) Pride March is a pedestrian-only event celebrating unity, diversity, and LGBTQ+ pride. Participants will march along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk. The event is open to individuals, community groups, nonprofits, and businesses who support equality and inclusivity.

Following the march, participants are invited to join us at Pride at the Beach at the 31st Street Neptunes Park, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, and interactive community experiences and a chance to relax and wrap up a weekend of Pride events.

General Guidelines:

All participants must pre-register to help us plan for safety and accessibility. You’re welcome to register anonymously or with initials.
Signs, banners, and flags are encouraged; no object throwing allowed.
Further event details, including logistics and protocols, will be provided upon registration.

YOU MUST SIGNUP FOR MARCH DETAILS, LOCATION, AND TIME

Get Married at Pride

Deadline: May 15, 2026

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Are you about to tie the knot or have recently exchanged vows? Perhaps you're considering renewing your wedding promises? Hampton Roads Pride presents an exciting opportunity for you to celebrate your special moment on stage at PrideFest!

Experience your dream ceremony with the community officiated by Jacinta Gauvin on with the community at Hampton Roads PrideFest. Limited slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the registration fee is $100. All proceeds will contribute to the HRP Scholarship fund.

These exclusive ceremonies will take place during the festival at Town Point Park. While the exact stage times will be communicated closer to the event by our entertainment team, please note that your chosen hour during this timeframe will determine your stage time. Each ceremony typically lasts around ten minutes.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to celebrate your love in a memorable way!

Wedding packages include:

Dedicated styling consultation with Studio I Do expert stylist to choose your wedding day looks
Up to $5000 in couples attire rental from Studio I Do Bridals, Here & Now Bridal or All the Rage in Virginia Beach
Full hair services from Citrine Bride
Full beauty services from Lo & Co
Photography package from Deline Photography (ceremony photos plus 30 minute portrait mini-session)
Floral (bouquets or boutonnieres)