Home #Hwoodtimes When the world feels heavy, turn up the bass and shine on

When the world feels heavy, turn up the bass and shine on

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This year has already asked a lot of us. From attacks on gender-affirming care and LGBTQIA+ rights, to devastating cuts to arts and culture funding that impact organizations like San Diego Pride and so many of the spaces that help our communities feel seen, safe, and connected… the weight of this moment is real. We feel it. And, we know you do too.

And still, we shine.
And still, we celebrate.
And still, we turn up the bass.

Because joy is powerful. Community is powerful. Because every time we gather in joy, in resistance, and in love, is an act of defiance.

That’s why we’re especially excited to drop the next round of entertainment announcements for the San Diego Pride Festival. Our stages are coming together in a BIG way. You already know the lineup will be filled with artists, DJs, performers, and creatives who reflect the depth, brilliance, and energy of our community.

This year’s lineup is about more than entertainment. It’s about creating space to breathe, dance, connect, celebrate, and remember that none of us are alone in this moment.

The time to grab your tickets is NOW. Plan ahead, save money, and lock in your spot before the next lineup reveal drops.

Let’s make some noise together.

San Diego Pride

Stop the Cuts

On April 15, the Mayor released his proposed budget for FY27. To address a $118 million deficit, the proposal includes $11.8 million in cuts to the arts by eliminating critical arts and culture grants that San Diego Pride and hundreds of other nonprofits depend on to operate.

For San Diego Pride, these cuts would reduce city funding in our current fiscal year from nearly $400,000 to zero. This support primarily sustains our festival talent, the majority of whom are local and BIPOC artists. This loss would significantly undermine our financial stability and hinder our ability to fulfill our mission of fostering pride, equality, and respect for all LGBTQ+ communities locally, nationally, and globally.

And we are not alone. From the Office of Child & Youth Success (OCYS) to our libraries, parks and recreation centers, the proposed cuts will impact the services that countless San Diegans rely on for resources, opportunities, and community.

Stop the Cuts
San Diego’s biggest celebration of diversity and inclusion is calling your name! San Diego Pride returns to Balboa Park with community resources, queer-owned businesses, and multiple entertainment zones. Pride is more than a moment—it’s a movement. San Diego Pride continues after the parade and festival. Our registered 501c3, non-profit organization provides advocacy, community programs, and philanthropic efforts year-round. Your participation in our events fuels this ongoing work. Together, we build a brighter future. Our 2026 theme is: Pride Shines On
Apply here!
San Diego’s largest celebration of diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ joy is ready for you! San Diego’s Pride Parade is the largest single-day civic event in the region and is among the largest Prides in the United States, attracting over 250,000 cheering supporters of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Applications to be a contingent in the 2026 are now open. Email parade@sdpride.org  or production@sdpride.org with any questions.
Apply here!

Primary Election Day: June 2, 2026

The next gubernatorial primary election comes up on June 2, 2026. In addition to the race for California’s next Governor, you will also be voting on local elected officials and multiple state and local ballot measures. Ballots will be mailed out starting May 4, 2026  for all registered voters. You can vote by mail, drop off your mail-in ballot at drop-off locations, or you can vote in-person at select locations.Will you pledge to cast your ballot in the 2026 Primary Election? Let us know below!

Pledge to Primary
Volunteers Needed! 

Volunteer Sign Ups Now Open! Pride doesn’t just happen—it’s built by an incredible community of volunteers! With Pride Week 2026 on the horizon, now is the time to jump in and be part of making it all happen! Whether you’re a returning volunteer or joining us for the first time, there are so many ways to get involved, connect with community, and help create a safe, joyful, and unforgettable experience.

Learn more and sign up at sdpride.org/volunteer!

Volunteer
San Diego Pride Tickets are on sale now!

Get tickets before headliners and major announcements are revealed and save.

When:
Saturday, July 18, 2026 @ 12 PM – 10 PM
Sunday, July 19, 2026 @ 12 PM – 9 PM

Tickets

Bike Anywhere Day

Make your morning ride a little brighter

Join us on May 21 for a Pride pitstop at Bird Park, right at the top of the Pershing Bikeway! Swing by between 6:30–9:30 AM.

In partnership with RE Services, we’re keeping the energy high and the vibes even higher.

Thursday, May 21 
6:00am
3620 30th St
San Diego, CA 92104

More info>> HERE

Queer Salsa Social: Fall into Rhythm

1 YR CELEBRATION!

Fall in love with Salsa as we celebrate one year of hosting QSS. We will have a Salsa workshop at 7:30pm followed by Salsa & Bachata social, dance performance(s) and a surprise (non-salsa) live music session to end the night! More info on Instagram about the performances, guest instructor, and live music!

This is a queer-friendly event organized by Queer Latin Dance SD. First-time attendees must read our Code of Conduct.

What to Wear

Come as you are and wear whatever you feel comfortable in! Latin dance shoes are recommended.

RSVP LINK: https://queerlatindance.com/Events

Saturday, May 29
7:00pm- 10:30pm

More info>> HERE

 

QTAPI WeekendJoin us for the last weekend of AANHPI Heritage Month in May , as we celebrate QTAPI Weekend!

The weekend consists of events that highlight LGBTQ+ Asian, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern, and Desi lives and stories. Celebrate with us as we gather to uplift and bring joy with music, fun, and community!

For more information about QAPIMEDA visit sdpride.org/qapimeda

Saturday, May 30
11am-3pm
Coffee Shop Day Party:  Mixed Grounds Coffee,
4555 30th Street, San Diego,
CA 92116

More info>> HERE

 

BAYKED X SD Pride: 420 AAPI Drag Brunch at Sessions by the Bay

This is a special show honoring our local AAPI Drag Performers for AAPI Heritage Month. This is a partnership between Sessions by the Bay, SD Pride and QAPIMEDA to bring this jammed-packed show to life!

Featuring a HUGE lineup:

Your BAYKED host, Rosalinda

ARIS ATOMICA

EVELYN ROSE

MADDY MOKES

SAM PAGUITA

J LAU FARROW HALSTON

THAI TEAZE

VANITY JONES

Ticket includes a goodie bag full of surprises from sponsored brands – valued at $35+!

Expect jaw-dropping drag, bubbly energy, and a one-of-a-kind brunch experience you won’t find anywhere else in San Diego. Grab your group and get here early to pick up your greens!

✨ Doors: 12:00 PM

🎭 Showtime: 12:30 PM

📅 Sunday, May 31, 2026

📍 Sessions by the Bay – 700 Bay Marina Dr, National City, CA 91950

🎟️ $35 Entry

BUY TICKETS HERE: https://www.opentable.com/booking/experiences-availability?rid=1321408&restref=1321408&experienceId=715190&utm_source=external&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=shared

Sunday, May 31
12pm -2:30pm
Drag Brunch: Sessions by the Bay,
700 Bay Marina Drive, National City,
CA 91950

More info>> HERE

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Valerie Milano
2025 Palm Springs Pride Stonewall Art & Culture Award recipient, Valerie Milano is a Senior Editor and entertainment critic at The Hollywood Times, where she covers film, television, music, and the artists behind the stories. Her work has also appeared in Communications Daily, Discover Hollywood, Hollywood Today, Television International, and Video Age International. A passionate advocate for community and equality, Valerie is actively involved with the Human Rights Campaign, DAP Health, The LGBTQ Center of the Desert, LAMBDA Legal, and The L Fund. She is a proud member of the Los Angeles Press Club and a longtime supporter of Palm Springs cultural institutions inc the Art Museum. She previously served as a board member and key organizer of the Television Critics Association Press Tours, helping bridge the entertainment industry and press for many years.