Get ready, because on Saturday, October 18, 2025, Annapolis will come alive with its much-loved Pride Parade and Festival! This hotly anticipated event, which means so much especially within our LGBTQ+ community, has found a new home in October this year. Joe Toolan, Chairperson at Annapolis Pride, shared this exciting news recently. The festival was originally scheduled back on May 31, but Mother Nature had other plans, throwing storms our direction, which led us, quite rightly, towards a safer, sunnier October date.
"It feels fantastic hosting in October," shared Toolan, clearly thrilled. "There's something special about this month, as it's aligned with LGBTQIA+ History Month, a perfect opportunity really, where we honor our vibrant, diverse journey. Plus, we've got National Coming Out Day on October 11, a significant milestone recognized by so many in our community."
Toolan didn't forget October's historical roots either, noting, "Back in 1979, October marked our first march on Washington advocating lesbian and gay rights. It's about looking back at what we've achieved and remembering there's more work ahead."
Get ready: parade highlights and our grand marshal
This year's parade highlights Bree Fram, a recently retired U.S. Space Force colonel, as our grand marshal. Her years advocating from within both military and LGBTQ+ circles make her an inspiring and fitting choice.
The parade sets off at 10 a.m. from Calvert and Bladen Streets, weaving its vibrant path through Church Circle, gliding down West Street, and wrapping up at Amos Garrett Blvd. Expect colorful floats, energetic performers, and community groups marching arm in arm, exuding pure celebration and solidarity.
A festival filled with joy and community spirit
Once we've paraded through town, keep that energy flowing at our Annapolis Pride Festival. It runs from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m. over at Maryland Hall and Bates Athletic Complex. This day promises fun galore with live performances, art displays, tasty eats, and something engaging around every corner, with activities perfect regardless your age.
Our theme this year, "Growing in Pride, Growing in Community," emphasizes a continuous journey toward a more inclusive, accepting space. Toolan passionately added, "As we grow with pride, amazing things happen. We strengthen our communities, crafting safe, open, joyous spaces. It truly fosters building bridges and celebrating our beautiful diversity."
Everyone's welcome! Whether you're marching, volunteering, or just coming along, please join us. This event celebrates, raises awareness, and advocates fiercely and joyously around LGBTQ+ rights and equality.
In lead-up, local businesses and organizations are rallying support through sponsorships and hosting exciting pre-event activities, elevating excitement as we gear up towards what promises a day you'll remember!
The Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival beautifully showcases our community's strength and spirit, reminding us how far we've come and underscoring advocacy's essential role. As October 18 draws near, anticipation mounts. It's going be a day bursting with pride, unity, and celebration right here in Annapolis!
If you're curious about joining or want event specifics, don't hesitate. Reach out and connect with our passionate Annapolis Pride team.
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