Mid-South Pride

Our Story
Mid-South Pride is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the visibility, acceptance, and equality of the LGBTQ+ community in Memphis and beyond.

Our Story

Mid-South Pride is a community organization dedicated to advancing the visibility, acceptance, and equality of the LGBTQ+ community in the Mid-South region. We believe that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be able to live openly and authentically without fear of discrimination or persecution.

We aim to create a more inclusive and welcoming society for all through our annual Pride Fest celebration, educational and outreach programs, and partnerships with local organizations and businesses. We also work to support and empower LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those who are marginalized or underserved, by connecting them with resources and creating safe spaces to connect and build community.

Our Mission

Our mission is to celebrate and honor the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community while also advocating for social justice and equality for all. We strive to create meaningful and lasting change in our community and build a future where everyone can be their true selves.

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Our Vision

At Mid-South Pride, we strive for a world where every LGBTQ+ individual can live openly and freely, embraced fully by their communities. We’re committed to dismantling the barriers that inhibit such freedom, aiming for a future where LGBTQ+ rights are universal and discrimination is a relic of the past. In fostering understanding and acceptance, we envision a society that not only recognizes but celebrates every individual’s right to thrive and fulfill their potential without fear. Our mission is rooted in the belief that authenticity and love can indeed transform society, making inclusivity not just an aspiration, but a lived reality.

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Our Values

Mid-South Pride champions inclusivity, diversity, visibility, advocacy, community, and empowerment as its core values.

Inclusivity

We fiercely believe that every individual, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity, deserves to be treated with unwavering dignity and respect. We tirelessly work to create a safe haven and a welcoming embrace for all members of the LGBTQ+ community and their steadfast allies.

Diversity

We celebrate and uplift the vibrant tapestry of diversity that enriches the LGBTQ+ community. We actively strive to create meaningful opportunities for representation and inclusion, ensuring that every voice is heard and every story is honored.

Visibility

We assert that the visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ individuals within society is not merely important, but absolutely essential. We dedicate ourselves to creating platforms and spaces where our community can shine brightly and authentically, breaking through barriers and challenging societal norms.

Advocacy

We are unwavering in our commitment to advocating for the fundamental rights and true equality of LGBTQ+ individuals. We tirelessly work to create a world where every person can live openly, authentically, and without fear, free from discrimination and prejudice.

Community

We firmly believe in the transformative power of community. We pour our hearts into creating a supportive, nurturing, and empowering environment for all members of the LGBTQ+ community, fostering a sense of belonging, solidarity, and shared purpose.

Empowerment

We work to empower LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their authentic selves, stand tall against adversity, and actively shape a just society. Through vital resources, unwavering support, and a powerful platform, we ignite self-confidence and collective strength, propelling our community forward in the fight for equity.

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A Member of

InterPride

Our affiliation with InterPride (International Association of Pride Organizers) connects us to a global network of partners, enabling us to share knowledge, resources, and best practices. This collaboration allows us to stay at the forefront of the LGBTQ+ movement, ensuring that our events and initiatives are informed by the latest trends and innovations in the global Pride community. Through InterPride, we gain access to a wealth of experience and expertise, empowering us to create more impactful and meaningful experiences for our local LGBTQ+ community.

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A Member of

U.S. Association of Prides

Our membership in the U.S. Association of Prides connects us with a nationwide network of Pride organizations, fostering collaboration and solidarity across the country. This alliance allows us to share ideas, strategies, and resources with other Pride organizers, enabling us to learn from their successes and challenges. By working together with other U.S. Pride organizations, we can amplify our collective voice and advocate more effectively for the rights and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community at both local and national levels.

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A Member of

International Festival and Events Association

As a member of IFEA, Mid-South Pride benefits from access to a wide range of educational resources, industry-leading training, and networking opportunities with event professionals from around the world. This affiliation helps us to continuously improve the quality and professionalism of our events, ensuring that we deliver exceptional experiences to our attendees. Through IFEA, we stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in event management, allowing us to optimize our operations and maximize the impact of our celebrations.

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.

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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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