HOUSTON — Downtown Houston was filled with color, music, and unity on Saturday as thousands of people came together for the 47th Annual Houston Pride LGBTQ+ Celebration and Parade.
Festivities kicked off near City Hall with a lively festival that ran from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering entertainment, vendors, and community resources for attendees of all ages. The energy continued into the evening with the highly anticipated Pride Parade, which began at 7 p.m. at the intersection of Smith and Lamar streets.
The parade, free and open to the public, drew crowds from across the city and beyond, as people gathered to celebrate love, diversity, and inclusion.
Aide Selinas, who attended to support one of her best friends in the LGBTQ+ community, said the event is about embracing life and authenticity.
“I just support him. I love him, so I’m here supporting,” Selinas shared. “Life is way too short, and you have to be happy for who you are and what you are.”
For some, like Amberese Manuel, the event has become a cherished tradition. Attending with his sister and her girlfriend, Manuel said they came to soak in the positive atmosphere and enjoy the sights.
“Everything has been absolutely amazing. This is their first time here, and this is my third time at Pride,” Manuel said, adding that one of his favorite parts of the celebration is catching the “throws,” or small items tossed to the crowd, similar to Mardi Gras traditions.
“We’re used to throws and things like that, so we’re excited about catching some really good stuff,” Manuel explained. “Just seeing the people enjoying themselves and having a good time.”
Reflecting on the current social climate, Manuel offered words of encouragement for the LGBTQ+ community.
“Stay strong, stay vigilant, stay alert,” he said. “Live your life but be mindful. Because in this day and age, we have a lot going on. It’s a lot working against us, but if we stay together, stick together, everything will be fine.”
The Houston Pride Parade, one of the largest in Texas, continues to serve as a vibrant celebration of equality while also reminding participants of the importance of community and resilience.
