Ready to celebrate love and community under the Florida sun? St. Pete Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the Southeast—and it’s the heart of Clearwater summer fun in June. Whether you’re traveling with friends, flying solo, or making it a family affair, this vibrant festival brings everyone together in an atmosphere that’s as inclusive as it is unforgettable.
Whether you’re coming from Miami, Orlando, or anywhere else in Florida, St. Pete Pride is absolutely worth the trip. And with Casiola vacation rentals available nearby, you can travel in comfort while staying close to all the color and energy.
Where is St. Pete Pride?
Located just a short drive from Clearwater Beach, the city of St. Petersburg turns into a month-long celebration of Pride. Think parades, beach parties, art walks, drag brunches, and community-led events that embrace diversity in all its forms.
Here’s how to make the most of Clearwater summer fun during Pride month with 8 LGBTQ+ friendly activities that deserve a spot on your itinerary.
1. Join the St. Pete Pride Parade
Let’s start with the main event. The St. Pete Pride Parade is the largest in Florida, drawing thousands of attendees and turning downtown St. Petersburg into a sea of rainbows, music, and high energy.
Floats, marchers, and performers wind through the streets while crowds cheer, dance, and celebrate every step of the way. It’s free, family-friendly, and packed with joy. The parade typically kicks off near the waterfront, so grab a spot early and bring your loudest cheers.
Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes, bring a fan or parasol, and prepare to be on your feet for a few hours. Pride = party + steps.
2. Beach day at Clearwater Beach
Need a break from the crowds? Clearwater summer fun is packed with plenty of sun and sand. Clearwater Beach is a quick drive from downtown St. Pete and one of Florida’s most beautiful coastal gems. Powdery white sand, warm Gulf water, and a laid-back vibe make it the perfect place to unwind.
During Pride weekend, you’re likely to see small pop-up gatherings of LGBTQ+ locals and travelers alike just hanging out and enjoying the sun. Bring a pride flag, a cooler, and some tunes. It’s a great way to keep the celebration going in a more relaxed setting.
3. Brunch and drag in St. Pete
What’s Pride weekend without a fierce drag brunch? St. Petersburg has an incredible drag scene, and during June, the brunch shows get even bigger and more fabulous. Local spots like Salty Nun and Blur Nightclub in nearby Dunedin often host themed brunches featuring top-tier performers, bottomless mimosas, and lots of audience participation. These events fill up fast, so make a reservation early if you can.
Not a morning person? No worries. Many bars and lounges in the area also offer late-night drag shows and themed parties that go until the early morning hours.
4. Stroll the LGBTQ+ Welcome Center
Take a quieter moment to connect with the heart of the community at the LGBTQ+ Welcome Center in St. Pete. Located in the Grand Central District, this cozy spot is part resource hub, part coffee shop, and part meeting place for locals and travelers alike.
You can grab an iced latte, browse LGBTQ+ literature, check out the event board, or chat with a volunteer about local happenings. It’s a great place to pause and recharge while still soaking up the Pride energy.
5. Explore the St. Pete ArtWalk
Looking for a mix of creativity and culture? The St. Pete Second Saturday ArtWalk is a must. Over 40 local galleries open their doors with new exhibitions, artist talks, and open studios. In June, many galleries participate in Pride-themed installations, showcasing queer artists and celebrating identity through visual expression. Expect live music, food trucks, and a walkable path filled with unique finds.
It’s a quieter, but deeply meaningful, way to experience Clearwater summer fun and support local LGBTQ+ creatives.
Good to know: Galleries and studios are open from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.
6. Hit the bars & clubs in Grand Central
When the sun sets, Grand Central heats up. This neighborhood is the epicenter of St. Pete’s LGBTQ+ nightlife and offers something for every vibe. Clearwater summer fun is never complete without a few drinks.
Check out Enigma, a sleek dance spot with strong cocktails and themed DJ nights. LALA St, Pete offers a unique blend of dining and entertainment. It features seven private, themed karaoke rooms, providing an upscale yet fun atmosphere for groups of various sizes. The menu showcases American and French cuisine with Mediterranean influences, including dishes like charred Spanish octopus, filet mignon, and truffle aioli burgers. And if you’re looking for late-night dancing and drag, The Garage On Central never disappoints. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out or a casual happy hour, Grand Central is one of the top hotspots for Pride season.
7. Attend a pride family picnic or community event
St. Pete Pride isn’t just about parties. It’s also about creating space for connection, reflection, and support. Throughout the month, you’ll find events like LGBTQ+ family picnics, youth-focused gatherings, and wellness sessions.
These events provide an inclusive space for people of all ages and identities to come together in celebration. They’re a reminder that Clearwater summer fun can be meaningful, relaxing, and community-driven all at once.
Pro tip: Check the official St. Pete Pride website or Instagram page for a complete list of community happenings.
8. Stay cool with pride pool parties
Pride month brings out the best in the area, and Clearwater summer fun is all about soaking up that energy with your favorite people. If there’s one thing Florida does right during summer, it’s pool parties. Several hotels and venues in St. Pete and Clearwater host Pride-themed pool events, complete with DJs, drink specials, inflatable floats, and lots of sun-soaked energy.
Even if you’re staying outside the city, you can usually snag a day pass to join the fun. Just bring a swimsuit, a towel, and your best dance moves. These events are a great way to mix, mingle, and cool off between parades and parties, making them a must-do for your Clearwater summer fun agenda.
Getting there: Travel tips from Miami or Orlando
If you’re planning to travel to St. Pete Pride from Miami or Orlando, you’re in luck because Clearwater is easily accessible by car and offers plenty of options for weekend road trips or longer stays. St. Pete and Clearwater are right next to each other.
- From Miami: The drive takes about 4.5 to 5 hours. Consider breaking it up with a beach stop or overnight stay halfway if you want to take it slow.
- From Orlando: You’ll be on the road for roughly 2 hours, making it a super easy getaway for a weekend of celebration.
If you’re not renting a car, regional bus services and ride shares are available. Once you’re in Clearwater or St. Pete, rideshares like Lyft and Uber are widely used, and much of the Pride festivities are walkable or accessible by trolley.
What to pack for Clearwater summer fun and St. Pete Pride
Heading to Pride in Florida means sunshine, heat, dancing, and lots of walking—so packing smart makes all the difference. Here’s a quick guide to help you stay cool, comfy, and totally Pride-ready.
Light layers are your best friend. June temperatures hover in the upper 80s, so bring breathable clothing like tank tops, shorts, and breezy sundresses. Want to show your Pride? Don’t hold back. Bright colors, crop tops, glitter, and statement pieces are all welcome here.
Footwear matters. Whether you’re marching in the parade or hopping between events, you’ll be on your feet a lot. Go for comfy sneakers or sandals with good support.
Sun protection is a must. Pack sunglasses, SPF 30 or higher, a wide-brimmed hat, and a portable fan or cooling towel. Florida heat is no joke—especially if you’re spending time on the beach or at an outdoor event.
Don’t forget the extras. A refillable water bottle, portable charger, lip balm, and a small cross-body bag or fanny pack will help you stay hydrated, charged, and hands-free while exploring.
And if you’re attending a pool party or beach gathering, toss in a swimsuit, towel, and a quick-dry cover-up. Clearwater summer fun means you’ll likely spend time both on land and in the water.
Stay in style: Book your next Clearwater vacation rental with Casiola
Want a stylish, comfortable base for all your Pride plans? Whether you’re coming from Miami or Orlando, Casiola vacation rentals offer the perfect way to stay close to the celebration while enjoying the space and flexibility of home.
Instead of squeezing into a hotel, enjoy your own kitchen, living area, and room to breathe. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or bringing your chosen family along, you’ll have a cool, private place to recharge after the festivities.
Check out our full selection of vacation homes at Casiola Clearwater and book early. Pride weekend fills up fast!
FAQ
St. Pete Pride takes place throughout the month of June, with the biggest events – like the parade and main celebrations – typically happening on the last weekend. Be sure to check the official schedule for dates, as events span the entire month.
Yes! St. Pete Pride offers events for everyone, including family picnics, youth gatherings, and community activities designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all ages.
Clearwater is just a short drive from downtown St. Petersburg, where most Pride events are held. It’s easy to go back and forth, making Clearwater a great home base for a Pride weekend.
Casiola vacation rentals are the perfect place to stay during St. Pete Pride. Located conveniently near all the action, they offer comfort, style, and the space you need to relax between events. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, you’ll feel right at home with Casiola.
