SF Pride Parade draws tens of thousands to celebrate love and resistance
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Celebration and joy filled the streets of downtown San Francisco Sunday as the city hosted its 56th annual Pride Parade, showcasing a vibrant display of LGBTQ+ identity, freedom, and inclusion.
A sea of rainbow colors stretched along Market Street, where thousands gathered to celebrate one of the largest Pride events in the country.
"I wanted to come out and celebrate everyone and being kind to one another," said Amy Hackleman, who traveled from South Lake Tahoe to attend the event.
For many, the parade is both a celebration and a show of support.
Alameda resident Jessi Bentley said being there was important.
WATCH: 2026 San Francisco Pride Parade exclusively on ABC7
"I want to support the community no matter what. They deserve everything," Bentley said.
Others say the event carries deep personal meaning.
"I'm bisexual, so this means a lot to me," said Maya Rantala of Alameda. "I feel very included."
Organizers estimate around 56,000 participants took part in the parade, which included community groups, advocacy organizations, local leaders -- and Mayor Daniel Lurie.
"The energy is off the hook! It's electric out here," Lurie said. "We are showing the world how you do Pride. Our LGBTQ+ community is what makes San Francisco so special and so unique."
VIDEO: Here's the best of 2026 San Francisco Pride Parade
While the day was filled with celebration, there were also moments of activism. Protest chants echoed through parts of the route, highlighting ongoing concerns about LGBTQ+ rights nationwide.
"The rights are under attack! What do we do? Stand up! fight back," demonstrators chanted.
Transgender activists were especially visible, drawing attention to what they say is a growing wave of legislation targeting LGBTQ+ communities across the country.
"You've got to speak up. You've got to show up," said Honey Mahogany, director of San Francisco's Office of Transgender Initiatives. "They want us to be quiet, they want us to be afraid, so it's time we don't back down."
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also made an appearance, emphasizing the historical impact of LGBTQ+ advocacy.
PHOTOS: San Francisco Pride Parade and Celebration 2026
"Speaking out has made such a difference -- from mobilizing against AIDS to where we are today," Pelosi said. "Thank you for your patriotism."
Security was a visible presence throughout the event, with San Francisco police officers stationed along the parade route.
"It takes a lot of resources, a lot of officers, and we're happy to do it," said Police Chief Derrick Lew.
Following the parade, celebrations continued at Civic Center Plaza, where crowds gathered for the Pride Festival, featuring music, performances and community events.
The day ended much as it began: with a colorful, high-energy display of unity, resilience and pride.
