The sun shone brightly on our oft-foggy San Francisco on Sunday, when we saw every color of the rainbow at the annual Pride Parade.
From Beale Street to Civic Center Plaza, the city transformed into a vibrant tapestry of love, acceptance, and unbridled joy, capturing the spirit of what makes San Francisco a beacon for the LGBTQ+ community.
Floats of all shapes and sizes followed. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence paraded in their customary outrageous feathered headpieces, spreading messages of love and community. Local businesses, nonprofits, and community groups showcased their support with elaborate displays.
As the parade snaked its way down Market Street, the crowd’s energy was palpable. Spectators of all ages and backgrounds lined the sidewalks, waving flags, cheering, and dancing. The air was filled with the infectious beats of pop anthems and the joyous sound of laughter. Street vendors sold everything from rainbow-colored cotton candy to glitter face paint, ensuring everyone could add a touch of sparkle to their day.
Civic Center Plaza, the parade’s endpoint, was a carnival of festivities. Booths offering information on LGBTQ+ rights, health services, and community resources were interspersed with food trucks serving everything from tacos to vegan ice cream. We spotted a bunch of fun drag numbers inside City Hall alongside festival goers and your typical hobnobbers. Mayor London Breed — whose float sported an all-silver Beyoncé theme this year — kept up her stamina all day and posed for more and more photos.
San Francisco’s Pride Parade was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful reminder and work still to be done. It was a day when everyone, regardless of who they are or whom they love, could come together and feel seen, valued, and loved.
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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More photos from San Francisco Pride Parade 2024
Photos by Courtney Muro for The Bold Italic.
