Suffolk Pride 2026

The early bird application phase has ended, however we are still accepting applications for any vendor selling prepared food or beverages, including food trucks, trailers, carts, and tent or booth setups. You will be charged only if approved to participate.

Because this application fee is non-refundable, please verify the following prior to submitting...

A) Make sure you can legally SERVE FOOD in the City of Suffolk. If you're unsure, reach out to the Suffolk Health Department by calling Erin Dinkle at (757) 514-4700 or via email at: wthdenv@vdh.virginia.gov

B) Make sure you can legally SALE FOOD in the City of Suffolk. If you're unsure, reach out to the Commissioner of the Revenue by calling Susie Corbman at (757) 514-4259 or via email at: scorbman@suffolkva.us

HAVE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES?

C) You must submit a valid ABC licence with your application. You can reach ABC at (757) 825-7830 or online: https://www.abc.virginia.gov/licenses/get-a-license/banquet-licenses.

The early bird deadline has passed, however any independent or small business vendor selling retail goods or services, including handmade items, artwork, clothing, accessories, crafts, and other non-food merchandise may still apply. You will be charged only if approved to participate.

Because this application fee is non-refundable, please verify the following prior to submitting...

Make sure you can legally do business in the City of Suffolk. If you're unsure, reach out to the Commissioner of the Revenue by calling Susie Corbman at (757) 514-4259 or via email at: scorbman@suffolkva.us

The early bird deadline has passed, however any national, regional, or corporate business selling branded retail goods or services, including franchise operations, large companies, OR business representing a corporate brand may still apply. The application fee will be charged upon approval.

Because this application fee is non-refundable, please verify the following prior to submitting in case they are applicable...

A) If serving food, make sure you can legally SERVE FOOD in the City of Suffolk. If you're unsure, reach out to the Suffolk Health Department by calling Erin Dinkle at (757) 514-4700 or via email at: wthdenv@vdh.virginia.gov

B) If selling anything, make sure you can legally SALE in the City of Suffolk. If you're unsure, reach out to the Commissioner of the Revenue by calling Susie Corbman at (757) 514-4259 or via email at: scorbman@suffolkva.us

HAVE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES?

C) You must submit a valid ABC licence with your application. You can reach ABC at (757) 825-7830 or online: https://www.abc.virginia.gov/licenses/get-a-license/banquet-licenses.

The early bird phase has ended, however any recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit or community organization operating for a charitable, advocacy, educational, or public service purpose may still apply. This category is for informational outreach only. No goods or services may be sold. Organizations wishing to sell items must apply under Retail (Non-Corporate). You will be charged only if approved to participate.

This application is for any singer, band, DJ, drag performer, dancer, host, comedian, or variety act applying to perform at Suffolk Pride Festival. 

Suffolk Pride is powered by volunteers. As a grassroots nonprofit, we depend on community members to help the festival stay welcoming, organized, and safe. We’re recruiting for the following teams...

1) Set-Up & Vendor Support Team
Help bring the festival to life by assisting with set-up tasks such as tables, signage, and supplies. Support vendor check-in, guide vendors to their assigned spaces, and serve as on-site runners for quick help.

2) Guest & Festival Floater Team
Greet guests and vendors, assist with check-in, staff the information booth, answer questions, and direct people to stages, restrooms, first aid, vendors, and other key areas. Floaters help wherever needed throughout the day to keep the festival running smoothly.

3) Traffic & Parking Team
Help direct parking, guide vehicles, and support smooth traffic flow in and out of the event area. Communicate clearly and keep lanes and access points moving.

4) Stage & Performer Support Team
Support the stage schedule by assisting with timekeeping, escorting performers and guests, coordinating transitions, and helping with performer needs.

5) Photography & Videography Team
Capture high quality photos and video throughout the day, including performances, vendors, crowd moments, and community highlights. Volunteers must bring their own camera or recording device.

6) Bartending / Bar Support Team (21+ only)
Support beverage service operations as assigned. Volunteers must be 21+. Duties may include helping with line flow, keeping the area organized, restocking approved supplies, and supporting trained bar leads.

7) Safety Support Team
Be visible eyes and ears to help keep the festival safe and orderly. Report concerns to leadership, help maintain calm by alerting the right staff when needed, and keep shared areas tidy throughout the day.

8) Break-Down & Site Reset Team
Help clear the festival site so vendors can safely break down and vehicles can enter the area in an organized way. Assist with packing up approved festival items, removing signage, and returning the park to its original condition by the end of the event.