This article was published on October 13th, 2022
With the mercury still soaring into the early days of autumn, so was the excitement for Las Vegas Pride 2022, hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada. It’s the largest Pride celebration in the state and it returned in 2022 after a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 global health pandemic. There was a full line-up of events held over five days, from drag performances and pool parties, to the Pride Festival and Pride Parade.
Las Vegas Pride took place Wednesday, October 5 – Sunday, October 9, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. People from across the west coast and beyond descended on the city of neon lights to attend the Pride festivities and events. It was a great weekend of laughter, celebration, re-connecting, new friendships, and memories.
Here is a look and the highlights of just some of the many events from Las Vegas Pride 2022.
Pre-Parade Block Party
Kicking off Las Vegas Pride weekend was the pre-parade Block Party. Folks from all genders and orientations gathered on 4th Avenue for a warm-up event. The family-friendly event welcomed the LGBTQ+ community and allies to participate.
Las Vegas Pride Parade
On the evening of Friday, November 7, downtown Las Vegas became a sea of rainbows, glitter, and excitement as the Las Vegas Pride parade made its way down 4th Avenue towards the Freemont Street district. The parade stepped off at 7pm, as the sun set across the dessert city. This was the first Pride parade Las Vegas had hosted since the beginning of the pandemic, and the community came out in masses to celebrate.
It was a warm evening, with clear skies, as thousands of people lined the parade route. The parade lasted almost two full hours with over 100 entries featuring colorful costumes, floats, community groups, local businesses, sponsors, not-for-profit groups, and rights activists.
The Las Vegas Pride parade included an entourage of local drag queens, LGBTQ+ advocates, and prominent members of the LGBTQ community.
“Happy Pride” was shouted all along the parade route, while Pride flags were proudly waved. The smiles on people’s faces was a clear sign that the Pride parade was welcomed back in Las Vegas.
Las Vegas Pride Festival
Thousands of people turned out to celebrate Pride in Las Vegas. Held on Saturday, October 4, the Las Vegas Pride Festival was the place to meet up with friend, enjoy entertainment, and celebrate Pride. The Las Vegas Pride Festival was held from 12:00pm – 11:00pm at the Craig Ranch Regional Park.
The festival grounds were filled with people coming out to celebrate diversity and inclusion. The Las Vegas Pride Festival was a key community event for youth and families to come and celebrate Las Vegas Pride.
There were fantastic performances and music throughout the day, across three stages. The festival included a variety of local food vendors, community organizations, sponsor booths, kids zone, pet zone, kink area, wedding ceremony space, and a VIP area. Each area was carefully planned out to take into consideration each distinct area offering.
There were plenty of vendors selling a variety of Pride merchandise, including flags, fans, buttons, pins, and more. People from all gender and sexual identities proudly wore gear that best suited their orientation and community. It showcased the diversity of the community and allowed people to connect with other likeminded people. The festival grounds became a beautiful rainbow of colors on display.
Community Support
Many of the resorts and businesses participated in Las Vegas Pride by hosting their own events, decorating their establishments, and offering special promotions. The entire city was a buzz of excitement during the five-day event. From drag shows to drink specials, the entire business community welcomed the return of Las Vegas Pride in 2022.
History of Las Vegas Pride
Las Vegas Pride first took place 39 years ago at the University of Las Vegas, when a series of events were held in May and June of 1983. Since then, except for the COVID-19 pandemic years, Las Vegas Pride has been an annual event. In 2016 it was decided to move the event from June to October, when the outdoor temperatures are more moderate.
Plan to Attend Las Vegas Pride 2023
It’s time to add Las Vegas Pride to your gay agenda in 2023. It’s the perfect opportunity to continue to show your pride throughout the year and extend the summer fun into the autumn season. Celebrate and advocate for human rights, be out and proud, and be visible at Las Vegas Pride 2023. www.LasVegasPride.org
Plan Your Trip to Las Vegas
Get your glam-fam and start planning your trip to Las Vegas! Come to celebrate Pride, life events, and a well-earned getaway—Las Vegas is a fun and thrilling destination with entertainment and activities for everyone.
Visit Las Vegas is a fantastic resource to help plan your ultimate gaycation. They know all the best places to stay, new and exciting attractions, nightlife options, places to eat, and things to do.
Plan your trip and book your accommodations now with the help of Visit Las Vegas: www.visitlasvegas.com
