By noon, Dolores Park became a kaleidoscope of color — parasols, flags, and outfits in every imaginable combination, but emphasizing one hue in particular. It was Pink Saturday, our quintessential preamble to the daylong festivities at Pride, the annual celebration and protest for LGBTQ+ rights.
Strangers became friends over shared snacks and stories, and spontaneous dance parties erupted throughout the park. Heartfelt messages of love and acceptance filled the area, and we asked partygoers what Pride meant to them.
Amaris and CK Blackmore
Their favorite part of Pride: “Connecting with the old timers! We love seeing the dykes on bikes and going to Wild Side West, which is the oldest standing lesbian-owned and operated bar.” They live in Pacifica but were in SF for 17 years before that.
Danika
They told us, “We always come for Dolores but are usually too hungover for the parade. We’ve walked the parade a bunch of times, so we don’t feel like we need to do it anymore. But when we do the parade we go to see the dykes on bikes and then we usually leave after. But today (the park) is what Pride is about, and why we come from all the way Oakland every year.”
Ben
He told us: “I love seeing what actual freedom looks like. People being unabashedly themselves. Their expressions, the kindness and acceptance; it’s a really gorgeous experience.” He lives two blocks from Dolores.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the park, the celebrations continued. As always, Pink Saturday at Dolores Park was more than just a party. It’s a declaration that all love is celebrated and welcome.
Courtney Muro is a San Francisco-based content strategist, producer, designer, and creator. She took all photos for this story. Saul Sugarman contributed words.
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