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Pride FAQs
Weather Update (7/18)
The Rochester Pride Festival has been canceled due to weather.
Where/when does the parade start?
The parade will start at 11:00 a.m. on July 18th at the intersection of South Avenue and Science Parkway. It will travel north on South Avenue, turn onto Highland Ave, and end at the Purple Crosswalk — just steps away from the festival in Highland Park!
Where can I park?
Please avoid parking on neighborhood streets. We recommend ride-sharing services or utilizing the free shuttle that runs continuously from MCC Lot A to E. Henrietta/South Ave from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. You can also pay to park ($5 cash) at the Al Sigl center on Elmwood Ave., or at the grass lot adjacent to it. Handicapped accessible parking will be available for free at the Lilac Adventure Zone at 249 Highland Ave.
Can I bring outside food/drink to the parade?
Yes, however, you can't bring alcohol.
Can pets march in the parade?
No, pets may not march in the parade. However, service animals are welcome.
Will the parade be accessible?
The Parade team is dedicated to providing an accessible experience for all. If you have questions, please email pride@trilliumhealth.org.
Pride Festival FAQs:
The festival will take place on July 18th from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. in Highland Park. The main entrance is located at 1440 South Avenue. There is also another entrance near the Lilac Adventure Zone (249 Highland Ave.)
Do I need a ticket to get in?
Yes. General admission includes entertainment, food trucks, beer/wine bar, kids area, and vendors. VIP tickets are for ages 21+ and include general admission plus a private bar, extra food options, a lounge area, and a private restroom trailer. Tickets can be bought at the gate (cash only) or online in advance.
- General admission: $5
- VIP tickets: $50
- Kids under 12: Free
- VIP ($50): Private bar, additional food options, lounge area, private restroom trailer (21+ only)
- General Admission ($5): Access to festival, music, food, and vendors
Where can I park?
Please avoid parking on neighborhood streets. We recommend ride-sharing services or utilizing the free shuttle than runs continuously from MCC Lot A to E. Henrietta/South Ave from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. You can also pay to park ($5 cash) at the Al Sigl center on Elmwood Ave., or at the grass lot adjacent to it. Handicapped accessible parking will be available for free at the Lilac Adventure Zone at 249 Highland Ave.
- 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM: Shuttles will run round trip from MCC Lot A to the Parade stop.
- 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM: Shuttles will run round trip from MCC Lot A, the Parade stop, and the Festival stop.
Is there anything I can't bring to the Festival?
Please see our list of restricted items:
General FAQs:
Why do you celebrate Pride in July?
Rochester traditionally celebrates Pride in July, dating back to its first Pride picnic. While June honors the Stonewall Uprising, holding events in July allows people to attend multiple Pride celebrations across New York.
What are the safety plans?
- Rochester Police Department presence at parade and outside festival
- Private security at both events
- Monroe County Crime Analysis Team monitoring activity
- Attendees are encouraged to stay alert and report concerns
Where does the money go?
Funds support the Parade and Festival. Any remaining funds may be distributed to organizations supporting LGBTQ+ events and programs in the Rochester area.
What if I have additional questions?
Please send an email to pride@trilliumhealth.org.
Is there Rochester Pride merchandise?
YES! You can purchase merchandise here.