Pilgrim's Pride Celebrates 50 Years of Unity at Pacific Pride Festival on Central Coast
- The Pacific Pride Festival celebrates 50 years of LGBTQ+ pride on August 23, 2025, at Chase Palm Park Field.
- The event features over 30 performances, including drag superstar Jessica Wild and local talents, fostering community engagement.
- The festival emphasizes love, unity, and visibility, connecting attendees with local organizations and promoting empowerment for marginalized communities.
Celebrating Unity and Resilience: The Pacific Pride Festival Marks 50 Years of Pride on the Central Coast
The Pacific Pride Festival, organized by the Pacific Pride Foundation, is poised to make a significant impact on the Central Coast as it commemorates a remarkable 50 years of Pride on August 23, 2025. This year’s theme, “Rooted in Pride: Embracing Our Past – Empowering Our Future,” encapsulates the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community while looking forward to continued progress. Scheduled to take place at Chase Palm Park Field from 11 AM to 7 PM, the festival aims to foster a sense of unity and visibility among attendees, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity.
The event promises an exciting lineup with over 30 performances, including the headlining act from drag superstar Jessica Wild, known for her appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race. Other notable acts include Mariachi Arcoiris de Los Angeles, the pioneering LGBTQ+ mariachi band, alongside local talents such as Samulous and the Santa Barbara Gay Men's Chorus. In addition to vibrant musical performances, the festival features a Family Zone complete with a dedicated Kids Stage, ensuring engagement for attendees of all ages. A 21+ Beer & Wine Garden offers a social space for adults, while over 70 vendors and food trucks provide a diverse culinary experience, highlighting the rich tapestry of the local community.
Executive Director Julio Roman emphasizes the festival’s role as a celebration of love, unity, and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. This free, all-ages event not only highlights the resilience of the community but also serves as a platform for artistic expression with immersive art installations in collaboration with Quilt Project Gold Coast and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. The festival aims to create an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can celebrate their identities and foster connections. Updates and schedules can be accessed through the Pacific Pride Foundation’s website and social media, with a dedicated media tent for coverage by various outlets.
In addition to the performances and food offerings, the festival serves as a vital community resource, connecting attendees with local organizations and support networks. The Pacific Pride Foundation’s dedication to empowerment and advocacy is evident throughout the event, reinforcing the importance of visibility for marginalized communities. As the festival approaches, it stands as a testament to the legacy and future of the LGBTQ+ movement on the Central Coast.