San Francisco Pride Draws Over 1 Million Attendees

San Francisco's annual Pride Parade, a major event drawing over one million attendees and generating an economic impact of $500 million, concluded a month of celebrations with a vibrant parade down Market Street. The event featured notable highlights such as the Dykes on Bikes, a pro-Palestinian group, and grand marshal Billy Porter. Alongside the parade, new additions like a cannabis-friendly zone and a private fundraiser added to the festivities. The weekend also carried significant political weight amidst ongoing threats to LGBTQ and women's rights, with participants emphasizing the importance of visibility and advocacy. Local businesses, including the newly reopened Ginger’s bar, are poised to benefit from the influx of visitors, contributing to a revitalized downtown. The Civic Center served as a central hub for performances and celebrations, embodying the theme 'Beacon of Love' for this year's Pride festivities.