Archives: Parade Units

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.

The Founder’s Flag is the official Memphis Pride Flag. It’s all-cotton, 6-stripe design assembled by former Mid-South Pride president, Mike Morgan and dedicated to founder...
The Sea-to-Sea Pride Flag is a signature of the Memphis Pride Parade with an interesting history. In 2003, Gilbert Baker, creator of the original Rainbow...
Introducing this year’s special guest, Kornbread Jeté! Known for her unforgettable presence on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14, Kornbread has captivated audiences with her charisma,...
The Mid-South Pride Pageant is a time-honored tradition where charisma, elegance, and advocacy take center stage, with contestants vying for the coveted titles of Mx,...
Lambda Car Club International – A special thanks to Lambda Car Club International for providing convertibles for our grand marshals and dignitaries, as they have...
Say hello to Will Ryder! Known as “The King of the Castle,” Will has been a dynamic Drag King performer in Memphis for 16 years....
Meet Renae Taylor, Grand Marshal 2024! As dedicated black, disabled, Non-Binary, Trans Organizer from Memphis, Renae has championed transgender rights and HIV prevention since 2000....
Introducing Miss Major, our Grand Marshal 2024! A veteran of the historic Stonewall Rebellion and a survivor of Attica State Prison, Miss Major is a...
The beloved department store proudly boasts that “the Magic of Macy’s” has been enchanting the world for more than 150 years. The ultimate gift giving...
As part of the liberal Unitarian Universalist denomination, we’re a diverse, progressive and caring congregation. We care about social justice, the environment and each other....
At Hilton, inclusivity isn’t just a policy; it’s who we are. From our team members’ attitudes to our carefully selected destinations, we’re committed to creating...
Memphis Parks manages over 150 sites which comprise over 5,600 acres of land. These are your parks, facilities, trails, and playgrounds. Along with a vast...
As the first official Syringe Services Program (SSP) in West Tennessee, A Betor Way is excited to announce that a free, harm reduction needle exchange...
Welcome to Memphis Pride Fest, the most colorful weekend of the year!
At The Pumping Station, we’re all about creating a lively, inclusive space where everyone feels at home. Our club is known for its welcoming vibe,...
Calvary Episcopal Church’s mission is to make God’s love visible in downtown Memphis. Calvary is the oldest public building in Memphis, still in use at...
French Truck is a specialty coffee roaster in Memphis. They are thrilled to support Memphis Pride!
You can expect a fun time, free HIV testing, condom distribution with lube and dental dams, free access to PrEP/PEP and a fun free gift...
Ford is a family company, one that spans the globe and has shared ideals. We value service to each other and the world as much...
Raymond James Financial has been a proud supporter and sponsor of Mid-South Pride for the past 5 years and are so excited to be back,...
QCG Productions is a vibrant event and production company showcasing captivating circus acts, featuring talented queer performers along with enthusiastic TLGBQ+ allies. Their lineup features...
Planned Parenthood of Tennessee and North Mississippi promotes health equity by providing affordable, high-quality, and nonjudgmental sexual health care, honest and accurate sexuality education, and...
For the last 33 years, OUTMemphis has been serving the TLGBQ+ Community of the Mid-South, working to empower, connect, educate and advocate for our vibrant...
NextHome Cornerstone Realty is here to help you find your next home. We are a locally gay owned real estate company. Serving Memphis for over...
Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Friends of George’s produces original theatrical content for the TLGBQ+ community and its friends and allies. Our mission is to raise...
Neshoba Church fosters religious growth and spiritual learning. Together, we celebrate life and worship in diverse fellowship, bearing witness to suffering and joy, and working...
Our mission is to provide local business professionals who are TLGBQ+ or identify as an ally, space where they can work peer-to-peer and business-to-business to...
Flynn Group is the worlds largest franchise operator in the United States, operating in 7 different brands including Applebee’s, Panera, Arby’s, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, Pizza...
We are the Memphis, TN and surrounding areas gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender athletic organization. We, along with our allies, provide a safe, friendly environment...
Glamazon – Memphis: Amazon’s Affinity Group for TLGBQ+ individuals and allies has always embraced the theme “Proud to Be Me” where our employees are allowed...
The Dixon Gallery and Gardens celebrates creativity, beauty, and discovery. The Dixon strives to bring people together and cultivate an appreciation for art and horticulture....
Enterprise of the Mid-South! We have 28 locations across the mid-south renting vehicles to 10,000 Memphians daily! Enterprise has a deep history of strengthen the...
Tennessee State Representative TORREY C. HARRIS was elected in 2020 as the first and currently only TLGBQ+ State Elected Official. Representative Harris has championed many...
At Hollywood Feed, we have always believed in doing what is right for our customers. We take pride in the services we offer, the products...
Book Sprock N’ Roll Party Bikes for any occasion! You bring the people, we bring the party. Supporting the Memphis community for eight years. Rated...
Gabby Salinas is running for the TN House. She is ready to fight for a TN where HIV is not criminalized, medical decisions are made...
Playhouse on the Square’s Cast of The Hot Wing King ! As the Mid-South’s Professional Resident Theatre Company, our mission is to provide outstanding theatrical...
Open and affirming since 1991. Known for its commitment to social justice and inclusivity, the UCC welcomes people of all backgrounds, races, sexual orientations, and...
The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is one of the leading art museums in the American South and is currently located in Overton Park. More...
For nearly a century, Gould’s has redefined excellence in the salon spa industry, a tradition that flourishes at Gould’s Academy. Serving the Memphis area with...
Playing a key role in addressing a critical public safety function of the City of Memphis, MFD pursues excellence through quality geographical coverage, equipment, and...
MPD strives to support every community especially our TLGBQ+ community. We are here!
The Memphis Public Libraries create inviting and engaging public spaces that offer programs and resources for all Memphians and bring people of different life circumstances...
Memphis Animal Services’ mission is to make Memphis a safe place for people and pets; to keep pets with the families who love them; and...
The Mayor’s Office is enthusiastic about supporting the TLGBQ+ community on behalf of the City of Memphis!
Shop Rat Mother is a plastic paradise for lovers of all things decora! Inspired from a DIY Japanese Subculture, Shop Rat Mother provides handmade jewelry...
Idlewild Presbyterian Church is committed to following Jesus Christ by Loving Memphis from the Heart of Midtown. Idlewild is part of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.),...
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America is a non-profit grassroots gun safety organization. We are a national movement of mothers and others working...
We are just coming together as a group of physicians and medical people who want to support our Trans Kids and thought this would be...
We Care TN supports Transwomen of color through education and empowerment with the goal that they have the same equity and quality of life as...
Serving the Mid-South for over 20 years, The Mystic Krewe of Pegasus Memphis raises money for their chosen Mid-South charities. As a local Mardi Gras...
Stonewall Tigers aims to create an inclusive space on campus to students, staff, faculty, and members of the Memphis community as a whole to share...
At the University of Memphis School of Social Work, we are committed to educating and empowering the next generation of social workers to make a...
The Tennessee Equality Project advocates for the equal rights of TLGBQ people in Tennessee through legislative advocacy. We lobby the Tennessee General Assembly and local...
Southland Park Casino, located in West Memphis, offers an exciting gaming experience with a wide variety of slot machines and table games. The casino also...
Sedgwick is a leading global provider of technology-enabled risk, benefits and integrated business solutions. Our more than 30,000 colleagues across 80 countries embrace our shared...
Sapphic Memphis is a 901-based group of diverse individuals dedicated to providing safe spaces for sapphic people to come together in the community. We currently...
At Mid-South Trans Nation, we are committed to supporting and empowering the transgender community in the Mid-South region. Our organization provides resources, advocacy, and a...
Blazing our own trail, HOIST is a “New Guard” leather club that still honors the “Old Guard” traditions. HOIST bolsters the ideals of brotherhood and...
Representatives from Memphis 901 FC. We’re thrilled to be here to celebrate Pride with y’all!
At Keller Williams, we celebrate our differences. We believe that each of us has the right to be our authentic self, live our true life...
Memphis Friends Meeting (Quakers) is an TLGBQ+ affirming space that also supports a number of local and allied causes. Join us at our meetinghouse at...
At International Paper, we transform renewable resources into products people depend on every day. As a world-leading producer of fiber-based products, we create packaging solutions...
St. John’s United Methodist Church proudly marches with Pride as a Reconciling congregation! ???? We celebrate and welcome TLGBQI+ individuals into our Christian community with...
The Mission of the IKEA TLGBQ+ Co-Worker Resource Group is to be a strategic partner, promoting an environment that values people of all gender identities...
The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, TN is steadfast in its mission to share the culture and lessons from the American Civil Rights Movement...
At Hyatt Centric Beale Street and Caption by Hyatt, we provide guests with modern, stylish accommodations in the heart of Memphis. Our vibrant hotels offer...
The Lt. Col. Luke Weathers, Jr. VA Medical Center, formerly the Memphis VA Medical Center, provides primary care and specialty health services, including addiction and...
At Target, we’re dedicated to providing a wide range of quality products at affordable prices, making shopping convenient and enjoyable for everyone. Our team is...
H&M is a world-wide fashion retailer whose goal is to Fashion and Quality at the Best Price in a Sustainable Way. We are committed to...
t Twin Oaks Funeral Home in Southaven, MS, we offer compassionate and professional funeral services tailored to the needs of each family. With a focus...
ViiV Healthcare, a global leader in HIV treatment and prevention, is dedicated to delivering innovative medicines and ensuring that no person living with HIV is...
Verizon in Memphis offers reliable wireless and broadband services, including high-speed internet, mobile plans, and home phone options. Known for their extensive network coverage and...
Ending HIV 901 is a Memphis-based initiative aimed at reducing new HIV infections in Shelby County by 90% by 2030. This collaborative effort focuses on...
American Family Dentistry in Memphis offers exceptional dental care for all ages, prioritizing personalized and preventive treatments. Their warm, skilled team and modern technology make...
Amazon MEM2 Tigers representing Glamazon Affinity Group. Supporting and acknowledging our TLGBQ+ Associates!
On behalf of over 105,000 AutoZoners across the US and internationally, AutoZone is so honored to be in the Mid-South Pride Parade. Proving their tagline,...
Rhodes is a national, four-year, private, coeducational, residential college committed to the liberal arts and sciences. Our highest priorities are intellectual engagement, service to others,...
At Dru’s Bar, we’re all about good times, great drinks, and an open, welcoming atmosphere. Known for our friendly staff and fun events, we’re a...
Our Mission: We are a loving, spiritual community that demonstrates compassion, inspires service, and embraces meaningful relationships where All Are Welcome!
At Dogs 2nd Chance, we are dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating dogs, giving them a second chance at a loving home. Our passionate team works...
First Presbyterian-Memphis is a 196 year-old caring community comprised of all kinds of people from all over Memphis who believe that we are all God’s...
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention works to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide across the state of Tennessee. The Tennessee...
DHL Supply Chain, part of the DPDHL Group, is the world’s leading logistics provider. Combining management and value-added services with our customized, integrated logistics solutions...
At Daily Cosmic, we are an all-original Rock/Pop/Dance band based in Memphis, dedicated to creating high-energy, danceable, and uplifting songs that ignite joy and connection....
Evergreen Presbyterian Church is an open and affirming faith community. Come visit us for a friendly hello, a laugh, or a hug if you need...
Chase Bank in Memphis provides a full suite of financial services, from personal banking to business solutions. Their dedicated team and convenient technology ensure efficient...
Green Bee Real Estate is a charitably driven, unapologetically progressive real estate brokerage that believes in equity for all. At our booth, you’ll find games,...
First Horizon Bank prides itself with bient a community leader and support for the community.
Charles Schwab, a leading titan in the world of investment and banking services, is more than just a financial institution. It’s a beacon of empowerment,...
Brother International Corporation has earned its reputation as a premier provider of home office and business products, home appliances for the sewing and crafting enthusiast...
Groups Recover Together is on a mission to make quality opiate addiction recovery more accessible, more affordable, more human. We are an outpatient opioid use...
Step into MoSH: the Memphis Museum of Science and History! Much like the vibrant Memphis mosaic, we’re a dynamic fusion of science, history, community, and...
The Memphis Bar Association TLGBQ+ and Ally Section is a group of Memphis attorneys who identify as TLGBQ+ and allies. The group works to provide...
Dr. Stiles and Memphis Internal Medicine and Pediatrics celebrates 20 years of compassionate care for all ages. Dr. Stiles is a member of WPATH and...
Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare has been caring for patients and families regardless of their ability to pay for more than 100...
Mortgage Financial Services is your mortgage lender with a deep focus on community. We pride ourselves on working with everyone from first time homebuyers to...
Balmoral Presbyterian Church is a worshipping community with a long tradition of being open and affirming to all people. No matter what gender, sexual identity,...

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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

Mid-South Pride and Memphis Pride Fest represent different aspects of the same overarching goal of celebrating and supporting the TLGBQ+ 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 TLGBQ+ 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 TLGBQIA 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

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.

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.

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

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 TLGBQ+ 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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 .

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 TLGBQ+ 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!

Loading ...