Charlotte Pride guide 2025 | Festival & parade weekend

Here’s your vibrant Charlotte Pride Guide for the 2025 Festival & Parade weekend—packed with key info, handy tips, and a full breakdown of events so you can celebrate with ease and flair!

When & Where?

• Festival Dates: Saturday, August 16, 12 PM–11 PM; Sunday, August 17, 12 PM–6 PM
• New Festival Location: First Ward Park in Uptown Charlotte
• Parade: Sunday, August 17, 1 PM–4 PM along N. Tryon Street, Uptown

First Ward Park in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

Key Weekend Highlights

1. Flourish: A Celebration of LGBTQ Arts & Culture

• When: Saturday, August 16, 1–6 PM
• Where: The Dubois Center, UNC Charlotte Center City (320 E 9th St)
• What to Expect: Free, air-conditioned performances including spoken word, short films, and live arts

2. Youth & Family Zone

• When: Saturday–Sunday, 12–6 PM
• Where: First Ward Park Great Lawn
• Highlights: Crafts, family resources, designated family care area—tobacco, drug, and alcohol-free zone

3. Health Fair

• When: Saturday 12–10 PM; Sunday 12–6 PM
• Where: Along 8th Street by First Ward Park
• What’s Offered: Wellness testing (HIV/STI), vaccinations, mental health support, and more

4. Neighborhood Market

• When: Saturday 12–10 PM; Sunday 12–6 PM
• Where: First Ward Park
• What to Explore: Local artisan booths offering handcrafted goods—perfect for unique Pride merch and gifts

5. Charlotte Black Pride Stage & Dance Tent

• When: Saturday–Sunday, 12–6 PM
• Where: North Brevard Street
• Vibe: A high-energy celebration of Black LGBTQ culture with music, dance, and community

6. Charlotte Pride Drag Pageant

• When: Thursday, August 14, 7 PM
• Where: Chasers (3217 The Plaza, Charlotte)
• Details: Contestants vie for titles like Mx., Miss, and Mr. Charlotte Pride

Travel & Logistics

Transportation Tips

• Parking: Numerous Uptown parking decks and surface lots nearby. For ease, consider reserving through SpotHero
• Public Transit: Highly recommended—Charlotte’s light rail and bus lines serve Uptown well. Expect street closures during the parade

*For more transportation options click here 

Staying Safe & Comfortable

• Accessibility: ASL interpreters available at performing stages; wheelchair-accessible routes throughout
• Health Safety: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, use shade, and look out for any public health updates
• Buddy Up: Large crowds—especially at parade time—make it easy to get separated. Stick with friends or family and plan meetup points
• Service Animals: Welcome. Pets are discouraged due to weather and crowd density

Final Tips

• Download the Mobile App: Check for live schedules, maps, and alerts.
• Consider a “Pride Passport”: Explore events throughout the week prior to festival weekend with the Charlotte Pride Week Passport for prizes.
• VIP Perks: VIP passes offer lounge access and special seating at the parade and stages.