If you’re looking for a fun way to spend a fall Saturday in Annapolis, the annual Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival is returning next weekend.
The 2026 celebration takes place on Saturday, October 3rd, bringing a full day of LGBTQ+ community celebration and entertainment to downtown Annapolis and the Bates Athletic Complex.
With a parade, two stages of live performances, food trucks, a children’s area and more than 150 vendors, there will be plenty happening throughout the day.
And because the event is free and open to the public, it’s an easy option for anyone looking to experience one of Annapolis’ biggest annual community celebrations.
When is the Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival taking place?
The Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival takes place Saturday, October 3, 2026, with the parade beginning at 11 am. The parade will proceed down West Street toward Amos Garrett Boulevard, with the festival following at the Bates Athletic Complex at 935 Spa Road.
The festival runs from 11 am to 6 pm, giving visitors several hours to explore the event after watching the parade. Annapolis Pride describes October’s celebration as a chance to celebrate Pride during LGBTQ+ History Month while enjoying the cooler fall weather.
Shuttle service will help connect visitors between the parade area, festival and parking at Navy Stadium, with ADA-accessible shuttles also available.
What to expect if you’re thinking about attending
There will be plenty to see and do once the parade wraps up.
The festival will feature two stages of live entertainment, more than 150 vendors, food trucks, a children’s area, and activities including a bouncy house, face painting and art activities from ArtFarm.
The 2026 entertainment lineup includes:
- Levi Stephens
- 8 Ohms
- Sweet Leda
- Queen Jalah Nicole and Friends
- Ryan Cassata and D.I.Y. Guy, the festival’s headliner
- Danah Denice
- Madisun Bailey
- Shelby Morgan
- Cameron Mae
- Sadia
- Leo & Cygnus
The festival will additionally have an enclosed sensory tent for visitors who need a quieter place to take a break from the activity.
Annapolis Pride says the event also provides ASL interpreters for the main stage and a dedicated parade viewing area for people with disabilities.
Is the Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival free to attend?
Yes. The Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival is free and open to the public.
While you don’t need a ticket to enjoy the parade or festival, you can expect plenty of opportunities to spend money once you’re there.
Annapolis Pride says more than 150 vendors will be at the Bates Athletic Complex, including artists, community organizations and other participating groups, along with food vendors and food trucks.
It’s also worth leaving some time to explore downtown Annapolis before or after the festivities.
The city’s walkable downtown has numerous restaurants, shops and other businesses, and individual establishments may offer Pride-related specials, promotions or other deals around the event.
For those driving, parking at Navy Stadium is available for $20 plus fees when purchased in advance, rising to a $30 flat rate on the day of the event. Annapolis Pride will provide shuttles connecting the parking area with the parade and festival.
With the parade starting at 11 am and the festival continuing until 6 pm, October 3rd is shaping up to be a full day of Pride celebrations in Annapolis.
