Want to join the Pride parade in Marigny and the French Quarter? Here's what to know. (2024)

There will be rainbows, regardless of the weather, on June 8 as New Orleans' annual Pride parade, a celebration of LGBTQ+ identity, rolls through the French Quarter. The procession commemorates the Stonewall riots of June 1969, which many consider the start of the gay rights movement.

The 2024 Pride parade is expected to feature 25 floats and as many as 5,000 marchers, including several of New Orleans’ marvelous Carnival dance troupes. The procession lines up on Elysian Fields Avenue near Washington Square Park at 6 p.m. and starts at 7 p.m.

Those interested in walking in the parade can sign up until noon on June 7 for a donation of $15. At this writing, floats are still available for rent, at a cost of $3,600.

The parade will begin on the river-bound side of Elysian Fields Avenue near Washington Square Park, turning right on North Peters Street to head into the French Quarter. It continues on North Peters Street until it merges with Decatur Street, passes Jackson Square, then turns right on St. Louis Street, right on North Rampart Street, right on St. Ann Street, and left on Bourbon Street, ending at Café Lafitte in Exile at 901 Bourbon St.

The always popular Pride parade is the crescendo of a day of celebrations.

Bounce superstar Big Freedia, New Orleans’ Queen Diva, will reign over Pridefest 2024, the annual block party that precedes the parade. The free event centers on the Phoenix Bar at 941 Elysian Fields Ave., and includes food and beverage vendors, community organization booths, and DJs, plus a lineup of live performances that begin at 11 a.m. and culminate with Freedia’s afternoon appearance. The festival concludes at 5 p.m.

Meanwhile, near the parade route, look for the Black Queer Community Fest from 1 to 8 p.m. at Armstrong Park, 701 N. Rampart St. The free outdoor party features art, food and entertainment, with a special headliner to be announced.

To join the parade, or for more information, visit the New Orleans Pride website.