Grand Marshal Nomination

Shine a Light on Innovation, Advocacy, and Leadership
Nominate a community luminary for Grand Marshal of the Memphis Pride Parade. Highlight an individual whose actions have made an impact in our community.

Why Nominate Grand Marshals?

Nominating someone for Grand Marshal in a Pride Parade is an opportunity to recognize and honor an individual’s contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. It serves as a visible symbol of the community’s strength and leadership, and having someone represent a particular theme or message can help to highlight important issues affecting the community. The Grand Marshal’s prominent position can draw attention to the parade and its message, making it a powerful tool for advocacy and awareness-raising. Participating in the nomination process and supporting the Grand Marshal can also help bring people together and foster a sense of unity, highlighting the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and the contributions of its members.

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What are we looking for?

We recognize our Grand Marshals as outstanding members and allies of the LGBTQ community. The honorary title of Grand Marshal is granted to those who possess a strong role in advocacy or make a significant stand for those in our community. They have helped to build and work to sustain a strong sense of pride throughout the years and want to make Memphis and the Mid-South a better place for members of the LGBTQ population to live.

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About Pride Fest

Meet Our Grand Marshals

From activists and community leaders to artists and advocates, the grand marshals of Mid-South Pride represent the very best of the LGBTQ+ community. In this list, we’ll introduce you to some of these remarkable individuals and the incredible work they’ve done to create a better, more accepting world for us all. Let their stories inspire you to continue the fight for equality and love and to always stand up for what’s right, no matter the obstacles.

Miss Major | Grand Marshal 2024

Miss Major

Grand Marshal 2024
Renae Taylor | Grand Marshal 2024

Renae Taylor

Grand Marshal 2024
Will Ryder | Grand Marshal 2024

Will Ryder

Grand Marshal 2024
LaRonia D. Hurd-Sawyer | Grand Marshal 2023

LaRonia D. Hurd-Sawyer

Grand Marshal 2023
Torrey Harris | Grand Marshal 2013

Torrey Harris

Grand Marshal 2013
Artavius Veasy | Grand Marshal 2022

Artavius Veasy

Grand Marshal 2022
Ray Rico | Grand Marshal 2022

Ray Rico

Grand Marshal 2022
Regina Hillman | Grand Marshal 2022

Regina Hillman

Grand Marshal 2022
Elijah Townsend | Grand Marshal 2021

Elijah Townsend

Grand Marshal 2021
Dr. Shawn Hayden | Grand Marshal 2021

Dr. Shawn Hayden

Grand Marshal 2021
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Now Accepting Nominations

Nominations are accepted year-round, and community participation is strongly encouraged. A few months before the festival, the community will be asked to vote for nominated candidates. Grand Marshals are typically announced about 30 days before Memphis Pride Fest.

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About Pride Fest

Find Answers

Have questions about Memphis Pride Fest or Mid-South Pride? Search our website and FAQs for insights on everything from parade routes to security and parking, ensuring a safe and memorable Pride celebration.

Yes! We love our four legged friends, but sometimes the weather is a little warm, and they will be doing a lot of walking, so protect their paws and take the recommended precautions to be sure they don’t overheat. (See the ASPCA Hot Weather Safety Tips for Pets) Also, be mindful of other festival-goers and ensure they are on a leash and you clean up behind them.

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There are seating options in some areas of the festival. However, seating may be limited during peak hours, but we do allow guests to bring popup chairs.

Tickets to Memphis Pride Fest and other events are non-refundable.

There are seating options in some areas of the festival. However, seating may be limited during peak hours, but we do allow guests to bring popup chairs.

Yes, absolutely! We encourage all attendees to stay hydrated during the event. So, feel free to bring your own bottled water. Just remember to help us keep the event area clean by disposing of any empty bottles in the provided recycling bins. Enjoy the fest!

Sponsor registration begins in January. Registration forms can be found on our website.

Sponsor Options
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Participating in the Pride Parade is easy. All you have to do is fill out the Parade Registration form found on our website. There, you’ll provide us with some details about your unit, and submit your registration fee. Prior to the event date, we will follow up by email with all the necessary details including the parade route, line-up time, and guidelines. We look forward to celebrating with you!

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When opting to pay later (by invoice), you should receive an invoice by email which includes a link to pay online. If you did not receive the invoice, check your spam folder or reach out through our contact form and we will re-send it to the email address provided.

You can also pay online without an invoice by visiting midsouthpride.org/pay , or follow the link below.

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Participating as a festival vendor is simple and straightforward. You’ll find information about vendor opportunities and registration details at the link below. Once submitted, our team will review it and get back to you. We’re excited about the possibility of having you as a part of Memphis Pride Fest!

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We’re thrilled to hear that you’re interested in joining the Pride festivities by hosting an event at your venue! To get started, simply fill out the “Event Hosting” form on our website. Here, you’ll be asked to provide information about your venue and the type of event you plan to host. Once your application is reviewed and approved, your event will be added to our official Pride Fest schedule. Your participation helps spread the joy of Pride throughout our city, and we’re excited to possibly work with you!

Your $1 admission not only grants you access to the festival area but also plays a vital role in helping us cover the additional costs associated with ensuring a safe and secure environment for all attendees. These expenses primarily include the presence of dedicated security personnel and related measures to guarantee everyone’s well-being throughout the event.

Furthermore, the admission-based entry system offers Memphis Pride Fest additional legal benefits by allowing us to establish a secure perimeter around the festival area, helping to deter and mitigate potential disruptions from counter-protesters. This ensures that we can maintain a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all participants while upholding the values of unity and respect.

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While there are no age restrictions for the open festival area or the Parade. However, some Pride Fest events and areas of the park, like the RedZone and VIP Areas, do require you to be 18+ or 21+

Vendor spaces are 10′ x 10′ and include the reserved space and a festival vendor pass.
The following add-ons are available during the registration process:

  • Tables
  • Chairs
  • 10×10 Canopies
  • Electrical Connections
  • Permits to Sell
  • Tent Permits
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Mid-South Pride and Memphis Pride Fest represent different aspects of the same overarching goal of celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community in the Memphis and Mid-South region.

Mid-South Pride is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization that stands at the forefront of championing the visibility and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community in the Mid-South area, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive authentically, free from discrimination. Learn More

Memphis Pride Fest is one of the flagship events organized by Mid-South Pride. The annual Memphis Pride Fest Weekend is a vibrant 4-day LGBTQIA Pride celebration. With over 50,000 families, friends, and allies in attendance, Memphis Pride Fest is the single largest Pride celebration in the region. Learn More

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Your parade unit id generally determines the location of your space in the lineup area. However, since different types of groups line up in different areas and are staggered into their final position at the lineup point, your unit number is not an indication of your exact position in the procession.

Unit numbers will be announced along with lineup instructions approximately 7 to 10 days prior to the parade. However, these numbers are prone to fluctuate as last-minute changes become necessary, so once the lineup is posted, check it often to be sure your lineup area hasn’t changed.

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For entry, attendees must pass through checkpoints where bag checks and metal detectors are in place. To further streamline this process and enhance safety, we have also implemented a clear bag policy. Only clear bags will be permitted inside the festival grounds. Kids’ diaper bags are okay but will be searched at the gate.

The Memphis Pride Fest RedZone is a curated space within the larger festival, specifically designated for individuals aged 18 and over. This exclusive area is tailored to adult attendees, focusing on aspects of sexual health, wellness, and personal intimacy.

It’s a hub where vendors present a variety of products and services, such as sexual health aids, adult-themed literature, personal wellness tools, and relationship counseling services. The Redzone is designed not only to showcase products and services, but to foster an environment of openness and education around adult sexual well-being.

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Our community’s safety and security are top priorities. We have partnered with local law enforcement and private security firms to ensure comprehensive on-site coverage, enhancing the safety of our attendees.

Checkpoints: For entry, attendees must pass through checkpoints where bag checks and metal detectors are in place. To further streamline this process and enhance safety, we have also implemented a clear bag policy.

Emergency Response:  The entire venue is under constant CCTV surveillance. We have clearly marked emergency exits and safe zones, ensuring quick access in case of emergencies. Our preparedness includes on-site emergency response teams ready to handle any situation.

Cyber Security: Additionally, we have taken measures to safeguard digital safety. All transactions and personal information are encrypted and secured through robust digital safeguards.

Communication: Moreover, to keep our visitors informed and secure, the Memphis Pride Fest mobile app allows attendees to opt-in for real-time updates and security alerts. Our unwavering commitment is to provide a secure, safe, and inclusive environment for all attendees.

The festival gates open at 11:00 AM, and the festivities last until 5:00 PM.

The parade steps off at 11:00 AM and lasts around 90 minutes.

Entries should report to their check-in point no earlier than 9:45 AM and no later than 10:30 AM. Lineup instructions are posted about 7 to 10 days prior to the parade at midsouthpride.org/lineup

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We closely monitoring the weather in the dato ensure everyone’s safety at Memphis Pride Fest. In the event of severe weather, activities will be suspended, and announcements will go out with instructions to clear the park and take appropriate shelter.
To stay informed, please download our mobile app, which will help ensure you’re notified of any emergency situations: midsouthpride.org/app.
As of now, the greatest risk of thunderstorms is expected to end in the early morning hours, but we will continue to monitor the situation closely and take the appropriate actions to ensure the safety of our guests, vendors, and other participants.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We’re committed to making this event safe and enjoyable for everyone, and we appreciate your support.
Stay safe and have a wonderful time at Memphis Pride Fest!

The Memphis Pride Parade features two flags, each with a different design and a unique story of its own:

The Sea-to-Sea Flag: A symbol of national LGBTQ+ solidarity, this flag was crafted by Gilbert Baker. Mid-South Pride was honored with a 100-foot segment in 2004, featuring a unique 8-stripe design including pink and indigo.

The Founder’s Flag: Debuted in 2008, this 6-stripe flag is a heartfelt tribute to Gary Wilkerson, a founder of Mid-South Pride, and serves as the official Memphis Pride flag.

Read more about these iconic symbols at midsouthpride.org/history

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The parade steps off at 11:00 AM on the first Saturday in June and runs through the Beale Street Entertainment District from S. Fourth Street and Beale Street (Just outside the festival entrance) and ends on Main Street. The entire procession lasts about 90 minutes.

The Memphis Pride Festival and Parade are held the first Saturday in June, but the 4 day Memphis Pride Fest weekend kicks off on onThursday and Friday prior to the Festival and Parade. See events.midsouthpride.org for upcoming dates and information..

The Festival is hosted in Robert Church Park at Fourth and Beale Street with the parade stepping off near the Festival Entrance at 11am and making its way down Beale Street, just blocks away from the National Civil Rights museum.

For more details visit midsouthpride.org/pridefest.

Event Calendar
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Festival registration begins typically towards the end of the year Nov/Dec and typically cuts off 60 days prior to the event. This allows organizers time to work out the logistics and secure equipment rentals and the required permits.

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Parade winners will typically be announced on the Hustle N Glow stage about 60 to 90 minutes after the parade ends.

Tickets ordered online are sent to the email address provided by the purchaser. Search your inbox for “You Have Tickets.” If you do not find them, send us a message along with the name and email address associated with your registration so we can send you another copy. To order tickets online, click here.

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The Sea-to-Sea flag has a unique feature that makes it easy to distinguish from the Memphis Pride Flag. For the full story, read The History of Pride in Memphis.

Order Online

You can order T-Shirts and other Pride Gear, on our website or at the Info Booth at the festival.

Order Online

You can order tickets on our website. Tickets are also available at the gate, but to expedite entry, we recommend ordering online in advance.

Order Online

There are a number of ways to navigate parking and transportation for Memphis Pride Fest. You might want to consider public transit like the Downtown Trolly System or rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft. Metered street parking is another option, although it’s often in high demand during events.

For those who prefer driving, nearby parking garages and lots, such as the 250 Peabody Pl Garage and the New Downtown Mobility Center, offer convenient locations. It’s worth noting that fees may apply in these locations, so checking rates and hours of operation beforehand is recommended. See more nearby parking options.

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VIP Passes are available at the info booth, which is located near the festival entrance at 4th and Beale St.

Vendor setup instructions will be posted at midsouthpride.org/setup approximately 7 to 10 days prior to the festival. Watch your inbox for updates.

Setup Info

Entries should report to their check-in point no earlier than 9:45 AM and no later than 10:30 AM.
The staging area for the parade lineup spans five streets in the downtown area. Registered entries will be sent a copy of the lineup instructions about five days prior to step-off. Once posted, they will be accessible at midsouhpride.org/lineup .

Lineup Info

Prime viewing for the parade is in the VIP Grandstand, which is located on Beale Street at Rufus Thomas Blvd, across from the Judge’s Stage. However, any point west of Rufus Thomas Blvd. will have a spectacular view.

At the Memphis Pride Fest, the Meet and Greet usually features a variety of special guests. These could include celebrity performers, notable figures from the LGBTQ+ community, and local activists. The specific lineup varies from year to year to keep the event fresh and exciting. We recommend checking our official website or social media platforms closer to the festival date for the most current information on who you can expect to meet this year. It’s always an incredible opportunity to connect with inspiring individuals!

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