I am so happy the pride parade made its big debut after the 2 year hiatus! If you have never been, I encourage you to go at least once! It is one of my favorite days of the year -- the joy, the energy, the love, the passion! The parade walkers cast a wide net from major corporations to small nonprofits, churches, and everything in between. Thousands of people line Mass Ave to watch so go early, get your spot, and take it all in. read more

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It's honestly hard for me to believe that Indy Pride really only started as I was entering my young adult years. The first Pride event occurred in 1981, when I was in high school, at the no longer in existence Essex House with a dinner. It wasn't until 1988 that a "public" event was held, a festival that attracted 175 people at the Indianapolis Sports Center. By 1991, the event was moved to the Monument Circle area and attracted an attendance of around 3,000. From 1992-1994, it moved to University Park. In 1995, Indy Pride, Inc. was established as an organization. However, some not so great choices resulted in a substantial debt that was finally resolved by the end of the 90's. Throughout this time, the event continued with the support of The Word and Justice, Inc. I know. I know. A review isn't supposed to be a history lesson, but I think the history of Indy Pride is vital because this event has become such a vital, important part of the Indy landscape. Celebrating the LGBTQ community in Indy and beyond, Indy Pride has grown from a couple hundred attendees to being a multi-block, festive, family friendly event attracting thousands of attendees and a slew of vendors from businesses to non-profits to churches and many more. While some lament that the event has become more "family friendly," there's something incredibly awe-inspiring about an upbeat, festive, love-filled event which embraces such diversity and celebrates those who attend. There's a parade, food drinks, musical performances, celebrities, vendors, and so much more that you can easily attend and spend a good majority of the day. As an organization, Indy Pride "exists to unite and serve its members and the LGBTQ community of Central Indiana through leadership development, educational and support programs, and community events that achieve inclusivity, equality, strong community connections, and awareness of LGBTQ issues." It's "wholly volunteer-managed non-partisan, tax-exempt, not-for-profit corporation that organizes Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Pride events in Central Indiana. Indy Pride, Inc. welcomes the participation of all, regardless of age, creed, gender, gender identification, HIV status, national origin, race, religion, sexual origin, and regardless of ability. Indy Pride, Inc. is governed by the Board of Directors elected by its membership." The event is largely wheelchair friendly and the LGBTQ community, while imperfect like the rest of society, works hard to be inclusive of those with disabilities and my experience has been everyone involved with the festival does an absolutely incredible job at being inclusive. While I've had times when I struggled when wheeling through grassy areas, the availability of assistance is obvious and the entire vibe of the event is one of unity, acceptance, and celebration. This is unquestionably one of my favorite events of the year and it's an important event for many people I love. As an organization, Indy Pride has become amazing at holding events throughout the year and at promoting the arts, wellness, healthy living, and much more in its special events and regular activities. Typically held in June at this point, this is definitely an event I recommend attending, participating in, or even volunteering in some capacity. You will feel loved, appreciated, and you'll feel like you've discovered a tribe. read more

As a heterosexual male living in a naive and ignorant state all my life I'm proud to share the love of personal freedom with my wife and two kids. My 6 year has lived going over the years and is now old enough to understand some of the meaning of Pride. Having an open mind like a child means nothing is wrong, different or unacceptable unless you become harmed. Everyone should experience pride parade and festival at least once. read more

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Full disclosure: I've somewhat regularly marched in the parade, either with my employer or with a local Democratic council rep. Indy Pride is the largest Pride in Indiana. And believe it or not, it is a bit of a tourist attraction. I learned this one year interviewing people and many noting that they'd hit up various Prides throughout the month of June. Kind of like a Phish tour. This year's festivities moved from the American Legion Mall to Military Park near IUPUI. The good of this venue is there is a lot more open green space for people to lounge around, sit, and relax. Also a lot (but still not enough) trees. There was also a small Family area where no alcohol was allowed. This didn't seem heavily used, but I'm sure families appreciated the option. Bonus points on having a gated Service Dog area with a small kiddie pool in the shade. I left my service dog at home this year as it was just too hot to justify him marching+festival. Also, I'm glad we had two stages this year and they seemed to mix in some more traditional rock/pop/country in with the more DJ-based music that is typical of Pride. The drag show was also a nice touch. So why 4 and not 5 stars? Honestly, there were not a lot of vendors this year. Or at least it seemed like it. I noticed at least one company and one political party that had tables in past years that wasn't here this year. The lay out for the vendors/tables was also very confusing, with many of them being a bit off the beaten path. Also I make it a rule never to drink alcohol during Pride. But the alcohol lines were ridiculously long. I guess you had to buy alcohol tickets and then buy alcohol. But the food vendors just accepted cash or whatever. It seemed to make the alcohol lines needlessly long. And for a more accessible Military Park, this could be a hindrance for someone who has mobility issues or is walking with small children. I hope Pride takes the time to reflect on their overall successful festival, but looks forward to making improvements next year. read more

Indy Pride - Festivals Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Confession: I cried three times in the Pride Parade yesterday. This might be the most loving day in Indiana. The outpouring of love that I experienced from the spectators made my heart swell. With more than 100 Parade entries, you'll see everything from drag queens to businesses showing their love and support. This year's parade mosied south on Delaware and turned left on to Mass Ave. in addition to the route changing this year, the location of the festivities moved to Military Park for more room. This is a short and sweet review, but I thought I should thank the city for rallying in the name of love for all. read more

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The parade was spectacular as ALWAYS. Military Park is not handicap accessible so I couldn't use my motorized wheelchair to go to that. read more

Indy Pride - Festivals Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

If you've never been to Pride, then hear me when I say I need you to get your life together because it's a good time!!! There is a parade, food, drinks, and performances galore. In years past we've had participants from RuPaul's Drag Race, Mya, and En Vogue! My first year I worked as a volunteer, and in subsequent years just as a guest - each time was fun!!! Also, just realizing the history of the event brings great importance to the day. Indy's pride has been going strong since 1996!!! Admittedly, I've become spoiled. I only have recently started attending pride within the last few years and every year there has been a celebrity performer so I typically plan my day around who ever that is. This year there wasn't a celebrity performer, but it was still a good show. Additionally, there a number of booths with education material on safe sex practices, getting testing, and even how to vote! Things to know: 1. Drink water. It's going to be hot and no one needs you passing out! 2. Wear what your want, but keep it classy. People will essentially be wearing underwear. 3. Bring your sunscreen! It's either sunscreen before or aloe Vera after . . . you decide. 4. Find you a nice shaded area a people watch to your hearts content. You will literally see a little bit of everything and it's a beautiful thing. read more

Indy Pride - Festivals Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Want to experience one of the happiest days of your life; gay, straight, bi, queer, lesbian, whatever you're into? definitely check CC Indy Pride out! It brings all walks of life; young, old, everyone. It's a day to celebrate love and diversity, the challenges the LGBTQ community has overcome so far and how much it still has to go! (Cough cough RFRA.) There are a variety of acts, DJs, vendors, musicians, drag shows, etc. any and everything to satisfy and tickle your fancy. It's a free event but donations are encouraged. It's in a great location, and be sure to check out the parade beforehand. When I said it's one of the best days of my life of the year, I truly mean it. Go, be happy, be gay, be an ally, just be you - and whoever that is, you'll feel and be welcomed! Happy Pride, y'all! read more

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Indy really has a top notch Pride festival. I have participated twice in the parade and have been a parade spectator and festival go-er for many years. It is well organized, safe and grows into something better and better each year. Tips for going to the parade as spectator: make lots of noise and clap for those marching. The parade participants feed off of your energy! Wear sunscreen, hydrate, and of course wear your most festive rainbow attire! Tips for being in the parade: same applies as the spectator but you also need to practice your parade wave! Wrist, wrist, elbow, elbow! I highly recommend bubbles to blow throughout the walk since throwing candy is forbidden and cheap plastic necklaces and other give-aways aren't very environmentally friendly. :) Trust me, the crowd loves the bubbles, especially the kiddos! Happy Pride Month, Indy! IN Pride - you know how to throw a party! read more

I had the honor of seeing my kid on main stage this year as one of the ambassadors for Circle Ciy Pride 2017...And I. Was thoroughly impressed with the event overall. There was plenty to look at and to eat. Lots of space and now that it's at Military Park, there was plenty of easy parking too. They need to figure out the alcohol sales thing though. Getting in a long and slow line for tickets only to get into a long and slow line for a drink is just silly. More importantly, it takes away from my time and money to look and buy other things...It even from buying more drinks. There is no indication on how much drinks are so people have to guess. I guessed I'd need $20 for me and a friend. $20 got me 2.5 drinks plus a couple extra tix. There was no way i was getting back in line for more tickets even though I wanted more drink. $2 wasted when I would have gladly purchased another drink if I could have done it easier. Other than that, great event!! Indy does it up right! read more

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One of the best festivals and parades in the city. It grows larger every year. It's a celebration of pride and diversity; and it truly is a diverse crowd. All walks of life attend. The parade is in the morning and has grown to last over an hour and a half. The festival is made up of vendors selling products and food and beverages; alcoholic beverages; a stage featuring musical acts all day; businesses with booths representing their services and community involvement; and yes, political groups. It's a great event to mix and mingle and be a part of community. read more

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to attend Circle City Pride with friends. To say that I had a wonderful time would be an understatement! But let me point out While the event is fun, I think attendees who do not identify as LGBTQIA should take time to educate themselves on the issues facing this particular community. As a cis gender, heterosexual female - I believe it is important to listen to the narratives of persons within LGBTQIA community and not take over the narrative. Moreover, I find it important to challenge one's conceptions about gender appropriate roles and behaviors. These reflections will really make you appreciate the progress and struggles impacting LGBTQIA individuals. On a less serious note - Circle City Pride is a wonderful event where community, love, and acceptance is showcased in Downtown Indianapolis. By the time I showed up to Military park, the event was in full swing and be party atmosphere was in higher gear. The event is free but there is a suggested donation of $5.00. When you arrive at the location, you are greeted by check-in staff, who make sure to ID persons wanting to purchase alcohol and ensure no prohibited items enter (e.g., outside food or drink). My friends and I found the check-in process pretty smooth. Musical entertainment provided at the event was hit and miss. It's obvious that musical taste is subjective, but some of the DJs seemed to miss that it was Pride and people wanted to dance to songs other than techno -- which I like, but it grows old after twenty minutes non-stop. As far some of the underground performers on stage - there was one particular underground rap group who missed the mark completely (I also love to listen to rap music) -- the group seemed so out of place at the venue , both in musicality and stage presence. I definitely appreciate the event planners effort to include rap BUT strongly recommend that someone who ACTUALLY listens to the musical genre oversees the selection of such artists. I could think of other rap performers who would have been suitable for the event. On the main stage, there were drag performances by some of RuPaul's Drag Race alums. I have to say that I was surprisingly left underwhelmed by their performances - I expected high energy from the performances but instead I received more low key numbers. However, my energy was raised later that afternoon when headlining act "En Vogue" performed at the show! The ladies of En Vogue was amazing ! I felt like a child of the 90s all over again as I belted out my favorite tunes ! Their show was epic and definitely a crowd pleaser!!! All in all, I had a great time at Circle City Pride! I'm looking forward to attending the event once again in the future. read more

Indy Pride - Headlining musical act - En Vogue ! - Festivals Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I always have so much fun at Indy Pride! It's an awesome environment that welcomes so many different identifying individuals and they did a great job making it a safe place to be. My friend flew from DC because we had so much fun at it last year! I hope Indy Pride continues to grow bigger every year to the point that we are known for our welcoming and inclusive energy as a city! I'm proud to live in a state that celebrates Pride, it's been such a fantastic experience each and every time :) read more

Indy Pride - Ready for Pride! - Festivals Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

If you want to feel love come here. This's a fantastic celebration and everyone is so kind. We usually walk in the parade but this year we decided to watch it. What wonderful floats and companies. Please take the time to come out to this event. read more

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So much fun! Bring sunscreen and a neck fan of you can! (Like $6 at Walmart. Loved seeing everyone come together. Lots of food, fun, and people watching! read more

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WOW! Such a great experience to see so many individuals come together as one, regardless of sexuality. I attended both the parade and the festival and will be sure to return next year. It was difficult to find parking for the parade and some of the lines to order drinks and such were pretty busy at the festival, but regardless it was worth it. There was lots of live music, booths offering free goodies, and an awesome family zone for those that brought kiddos. read more

I participated in the parade earlier in the day with Yelp, and had a blast! We rode the Pickled Pedaler Bars, and prior to the start of the parade, we were on our way to the line up, and we encountered one of the most beautiful sights. A mom raised her sign high to show us: "that's my daughter," and her daughter was gorgeous and they were both BEAMING with joy and pride. I almost lost it! That's what this was all about. Pride, love, joy, beauty and more. If you wanna find all of that, go to the parade! I then chaperoned my daughter and friends (well, chauffeured, then they ditched me) at the festival later in the day, and there was more of the same. Plenty of food & entertainment for everyone to enjoy. I watched my first Drag Show and they were fantastic! Then a surprise to me, CeCe Peniston performed. She sang all of her hits, and new music too. Such a wonderfully beautiful and fun time for all to enjoy! read more

What an amazing event! Anyone and everyone is welcome and you can truly feel the love in the air. This was my first time going to the Pride Fest and there had to be 100+ vendors there showing their love and support for the community. There were two stages with performances going on constantly; there is something here for everyone! The majority of businesses are giving away awesome prizes and there are great shops to buy things as well. This event is MUST for LGBT+ and allies! Unbelievably proud to be a Hoosier today! Thank you to everyone who organized and worked these events! read more

This is my third year and it just keeps getting better, I had a great time supporting the local community who supports pride. It's amazing to see that there is still love surrounding this city, this state. It gets bigger and better every year! Rupaul's drag race stars were hilarious! my only complaint? and this is so my fault. Cash only locations..... I mean it's 2017 have some square readers or something. all in all it was a great time! read more

Best parade of the year! A fun time to be had by all. Be sure to stay hydrated. Purchasing tickets online can help shorten your wait in line to enter read more