What started as grassroots activism has bloomed into one of Utah's largest celebrations. The festival's history dates back to the 1970s, with early organizing efforts led by groups such as Gay Mormons United, followed by the first official march in 1990. That modest gathering of brave pioneers has evolved into today's vibrant, multi-day festival drawing tens of thousands to Washington Square Park each year—a testament to both how far we've come and the community's resilience.

The weekend perfectly blends activism with joy, community building with celebration, all while the Wasatch Mountains provide the most spectacular stage backdrop you'll find at any Pride festival anywhere. Come for the parade, stay for the breathtaking sunset over downtown from Ensign Peak—a quick 20-minute hike that offers the perfect reflection spot after a day of celebration.

LGBTQ+ Friendly Vibes

Salt Lake has evolved into one of the West's most welcoming LGBTQ+ communities—just stroll down Harvey Milk Boulevard (yes, we named a street after him) to see Pride flags flying year-round. Our City and County Councils include LGBTQ+ members, our mayor marches in the parade, and local businesses from coffee shops to breweries proudly display their allyship throughout the city.

Urban-Mountain Mix

Catch the morning festival activities in downtown Washington Square, then take an afternoon break with a quick stroll through Memory Grove Park just blocks away. Join the festival downtown by mid-afternoon, and still have time for a sunset hike along one of the best hiking trails near Salt Lake by evening. Grab a GREENbike to zip between Pride events downtown, or venture slightly further to experience the Great Salt Lake itself. In Salt Lake, you're never more than 20 minutes from either epic mountain views or craft cocktails—we're serious about this urban-outdoor balance.

Unexpected Cultural Scene

Between Pride events, duck into the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (a quick walk from the festival grounds!), explore Salt Lake's vibrant art scene and gallery strolls, or catch a show at one of our renowned performing arts venues. Salt Lake's arts scene might surprise you—just like our thriving LGBTQ+ community.

Pride Parade 

Sunday morning's parade transforms 100 South into a river of color flowing through downtown. Stake out your spot near the Salt Palace for shade or join the rowdier crowd by the City & County Building for maximum energy.

Pro tip: The coffee shops along Main Street open early for parade day.

Live Performances 

Expect homegrown stars like Foreign Figures, who have performed in previous years, one of Utah's most successful independent bands that've opened for national acts at the Delta Center, to grace the Washington Square main stage. Meanwhile, the community stage showcases Salt Lake's emerging talent—the same performers you might spot serving your coffee on Monday morning.

Vendor Village 

Shopping with a mountain view? Yes, please. Local artists from Sugar House to Rose Park bring their LGBTQ+ themed designs, while LGBTQ+-owned businesses serve up everything from handcrafted jewelry to that colorful t-shirt you didn't know you needed until now.

Family-Friendly Fun

Tucked in the northeast corner of Washington Square, this shaded area offers face painting, story time with drag performers, and kid-friendly entertainment. You'll spot plenty of LGBTQ+ families and allies creating memories together—Salt Lake's Pride has always prioritized inclusivity for the whole family.

• Best Time to Visit: Pride typically takes over downtown Salt Lake in early June each year. This year it’s happening June 6 - 8 and consider extending your stay to explore our mountain playground after the festival.

• Where to Stay: Book early! If you want to stay close to the action, check out LGBTQ+ friendly spots like the Kimpton Hotel Monaco, located just a hop, skip, and a jump from the festival.

• Getting Here: When we say Salt Lake International Airport is convenient, we mean it—you'll go from airplane seat to downtown hotel in under 25 minutes. Once you're here, forget the rental car. Between TRAX light rail and public transportation options, ride shares, and our surprisingly walkable downtown, you'll navigate Pride weekend effortlessly.

• Budget Tips: The festival itself is affordable, but hotels book up fast. Reserve rooms 3-4 months out, grab an early-bird festival pass, and use TRAX day passes ($5) to zip around town. Many downtown restaurants offer Pride weekend specials, and the food trucks at the festival won't disappoint. Balance your budget by mixing in some of Salt Lake's excellent free attractions and activities between festival events.
• Arts & Culture Break: Between Pride events, duck into the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (free admission!) nearright beside the festival grounds, or stroll three blocks north to catch a matinee performance at Broadway-at-the-Eccles. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts showcases both global collections and local LGBTQ+ artists—just a quick TRAX light rail ride from downtown.

• LGBTQ+ Bars & Clubs: When the festival gates close, the party's just getting started. Why Kiki on Harvey Milk Boulevard transforms from casual cocktail lounge to packed dance floor as the night progresses. For a more relaxed vibe, Club Try-Angles' legendary patio is where locals gather to recap the day's festivities over reasonably priced drinks. Check out Salt Lake's full range of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs.

• Morning-After Mountain Therapy: Did you dance too hard? The mountains surrounding Salt Lake have the cure. Memory Grove Park is just a 10-minute walk from most downtown hotels—follow City Creek uphill for a gentle morning hike. For something more substantial, the Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers panoramic city views just a 5-minute drive from downtown.

• Arts & Culture Break: Between Pride events, duck into the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (free admission!) right beside the festival grounds, or stroll three blocks north to catch a matinee performance at Broadway-at-the-Eccles. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts showcases both global collections and local LGBTQ+ artists—just a quick TRAX light rail ride from downtown.

• Utah Pride Center: Located in the Central 9th neighborhood, this hub offers year-round programming, resources, and community events. Stop by their booth at the festival to learn about their work supporting LGBTQ+ folks across Utah.
• Encircle: Their Salt Lake house provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth and families, offering counseling, friendship circles, and community events throughout the year. Their annual Pride programming adds meaningful depth to the weekend's festivities.
• Project Rainbow Utah: Look for their iconic rainbow flags throughout Salt Lake neighborhoods year-round, but especially during Pride month. Their volunteer-driven mission places thousands of flags on lawns across Utah to promote visibility and allyship.

• Weather: Early June in Salt Lake means warm, sunny days (think 75-85°F/24-29°C) and comfortably cool evenings. Pack layers—you'll want that light jacket when the sun dips behind the mountains, especially if you venture up to higher elevations.
• Safety Tips: Salt Lake consistently ranks among the safest cities for LGBTQ+ travelers, particularly in the downtown, Sugar House, and 9th & 9th neighborhoods. As with any large event, standard urban precautions apply, but Pride weekend brings an especially vigilant and supportive community together.
• LGBTQ+ Inclusivity: Salt Lake has undergone a remarkable evolution, emerging as a western hub for LGBTQ+ community and advocacy. The contrast between our conservative history and our vibrant LGBTQ+ present creates a unique energy during Pride—a celebration that feels both hard-won and joyfully optimistic.

Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Visit the Utah Pride Festival website for tickets, schedules, and the latest lineup. Salt Lake Pride isn't just a rainbow-colored footnote in your summer calendar—it's a one-of-a-kind celebration where mountains meet metropolis, where outdoor adventure complements urban energy, and where the unexpected awaits around every corner. Come with an open mind, comfortable shoes, and plenty of room on your camera roll—you'll need it for those "drag queen in front of mountain" shots that could only happen here.