Capital Pride Festival 2025

Pre-Festival Pride Blessing and Wed-In
  • 10:00 AM – Interfaith Pride Blessing
    Location: Kids Park area, near the Sprague Place and State Street entrance
    A multi-faith moment of affirmation and welcome led by local clergy. All are invited to attend.

  • 10:30 AM – Wedding and Vow Renewal Ceremony
    Location: Same as above
    Couples are invited to publicly celebrate love through marriage or vow renewal under the Pride flag.

  • 11:30 AM – Pride Parade Step-Off
    Location: State Street and Edgecomb
    The Capital Region’s largest LGBTQIA+ visibility event begins. Click here to see a parade route map.

Pride Festival in Washington Park 12:00 - 5:00
  • Main Stage Entertainment
  • Location: Festival Grounds, near Washington Park Lake

Family Area
  • Location: Park section between Knox Street Mall and Washington Park Road
  • Bounce house and kids’ rides, along with family-centered vendors.

Beer Garden
  • Location: Festival Grounds, adjacent to the Main Stage
  • Open from 12:00–5:00 PM. Valid ID required for entry. Alcohol may not be consumed outside of this designated area.

Vendor Marketplace
  • Location: Along Knox Street Mall
  • Browse a diverse selection of LGBTQIA+ affirming organizations, artisans, and businesses.

Food Vendors
  • Location: South edge of the Festival Grounds 
  • A range of food trucks and vendors will be available, including vegetarian options.

Pride or Die Stage
  • Location: Skatepark near Madison Avenue and South Lake Avenue
  • Featuring queer punk and glam rock performances, along with vendors and community partners specific to the alt-queer community.
  • Line-up includes:
  • 1:00 PM – DJ MERCY!!!
  • 1:20 PM – Haunted Cat
  • 2:00 PM – DJ Maxi
  • 2:20 PM – Gay Tastee

Main Stage Schedule highlights include:
  • 1:00 PM – Opening remarks from hosts and community leaders
  • 1:10 PM – Carmie Hope & Frieda Munchon
  • 1:20 PM – Mr. Gay Albany & Ms. Gay Albany
  • 1:30 PM – Erin Harkes Band
  • 2:45 PM – Parade Award Ceremony
  • 2:50 PM – Drag Revue featuring Philly Pina, Regina Sapphire, Fenix Fox, MorGlamazon, and Stella Progress
  • 3:15 PM – Mila Jam
  • 3:55 PM – DEV
  • 4:30 PM – Erin Harkes Band returns to close the day

Pride Sunday Run of Show

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Capital Pride Festival?
Sunday, June 8, 2025. The parade begins at 11:30 AM, and the festival runs from 12:00 to 5:00 PM.

Where is the event located?
All public-facing activities take place in and around Washington Park in Albany, NY.

Where does the parade start?
The parade begins at the corner of State Street and Edgecomb Avenue.

Where can I park?
Parking inside Washington Park is restricted to those in need of disability parking and very limited. We recommend using nearby public lots, including:
  • Hamilton and Dove Street lot
  • Small lot between Jay Street and Hudson Avenue on the west side of Lark Street
  • Albany Medical Center’s parking garage (approximately ¼ mile from the park)
  • Central Avenue and Washington Avenue lots between Henry Johnson Boulevard and Lexington Avenue
Visit parkalbany.com for additional information.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs must be leashed at all times. If your dog is uncomfortable in crowds or heat-sensitive, consider leaving them at home. Never leave animals in parked cars.

Can I set up a tent in the festival grounds?
Unfortunately, as the event has grown dramatically (and excitingly) in size, we no longer permit tents to be set up in the festival area where attendees stand to watch performances, however there are some areas along the vendor areas and festival ground edges that can be used.

What should I bring?
We recommend bringing:
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • A hat or small umbrella (no larger than a golf umbrella)
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Valid ID if you plan to enter the Beer Garden

Will there be food and drinks available?
Yes. A range of food trucks and vendors will offer meal and beverage options, including vegetarian selections. Water and soft drinks will also be available for purchase.

Is alcohol permitted in the park?
Alcohol is only allowed in the designated Beer Garden area. Attendees must be 21 or older with valid ID to enter.

Are restrooms available?
Yes. There will be 22 portable restrooms located throughout the park.

Is this a family-friendly event?
Yes. The Family Area includes a bounce house, rides, and kid-friendly activities open to all.

What happens if it rains?
The event will take place rain or shine. Please plan accordingly.