It’s June, and Pride events are in full swing.
Pride is a time to celebrate the historical victories and increased visibility of the LGBTQ community –– and after 10 p.m., it’s a time to have one too many mojitos.
But for most places, Pride doesn’t celebrate the end of oppression. It’s a reminder of the modern barriers the community faces.
Just as recently as April were Delray Beach officials discussing alternative ways to fund the city’s Pride and to remove it as a list of city-sponsored special events to avoid political blowback. It’s a stark reminder that Pride isn’t just a reflection –– it’s an ongoing movement.
Regardless of what the city commission decides, Delray Beach director of communications Gina Carter said this year’s event won’t be impacted since it was planned before the discussions began. Carter said the city will continue to support Pride events, but didn’t specify how it would do so if they were removed from its budget.
“While the city is always mindful of budgeting and fiscal priorities, we remain committed to supporting events that foster inclusivity, cultural celebration and civic pride,” Carter said. “Moving forward, we welcome ongoing dialogue about how to continue supporting events that reflect our community values.”
Here’s what you can expect from the fifth annual Delray Beach Pride on June 14.
Pride Festival
The Pride Festival kicks off official city events from 4-7 p.m. You can expect food, shopping and community booths, live entertainment and games –– all while vibing to a live DJ.
Want to turn the night up a notch? Carter said there will be a dedicated karaoke zone for anyone wanting to sing their hearts out.
The festival is free and is located at NE 2nd Ave, which is between E. Atlantic Ave and NE 2nd Street.
Pride Concert
Get ready to be the “Dancing Queen” at this year’s Pride Concert.
Headlining the show will be the Rock of ABBA, an ABBA tribute band that covers the group’s iconic songs live.
The concert, which will be held at the Old School Square Pavilion, begins at 7:30 p.m. just after the Pride Festival ends. Gates open at 7 p.m.
The group will perform hit ABBA songs such as “Voulez Vous,” “Dancing Queen,” “Money Money” and “Waterloo.”
Parking and Security
Parking can be an expensive hassle at large public events, but there are cheap and accessible options at Delray Beach Pride.
You can park at the Old School Square Garage for free before 4 p.m. After that, it costs $5 per vehicle. The garage is located 0.2 miles from the concert and 0.9 miles from the festival. You can also use an interactive map on delraybeachfl.gov to find other garages and available street parking.
While no new security measures will be implemented for the event, Carter said existing protocols that have proved to be effective in years past will remain intact.
“These include a visible police presence, collaboration with our Real-Time Crime Center, traffic and crowd control measures and coordination with emergency services to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees,” Carter said.
Presence Over Politics
Hosting a Pride event in 2025 is even more of a political statement than it has been for the last decade due to President Donald Trump’s attack on DEI and anti-LGBTQ initiatives. That’s why city commissioners discussed removing Pride from its budget in the first place.
But through all the noise, Pride still stands out and proud.
Carter said Delray Beach Pride represents the city’s principles.
“Hosting Pride in Delray Beach is always meaningful. Our event is an affirmation of our city’s values — diversity, inclusion, and respect for all. Pride serves as a celebration and a statement of solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community."
