Program areas at Venice Pride
Venice Pride Festival and Parade at Venice Beach Recreation Center: For the first time, Venice Pride moved its annual festival to the Venice Beach Recreation Center, offering an inclusive event open to all ages. This included stage performances, DJs, community booths, art installations, and food trucks. The event also featured a parade down the Venice Beach Boardwalk, a new addition to the organization's activities.
Global Rainbow Laser Installation and Viewing Party: Venice Pride hosted the L.A. premiere of Yvette Mattern's Global Rainbow laser installation on June 3, an event that garnered significant media attention. Held at Hotel Erwin's High Rooftop Lounge, this event included a VIP experience with cocktails and a meet-and-greet with the artist. Notably, the unveiling of the laser display was broadcast live on digital channels by NBC4 and Telemundo 52, with live reporting from the event. The gathering benefited Project Contrast and Venice Pride, highlighting the organization's impact and outreach within the community. The laser installation was visible for three nights from sundown until 3 AM from Venice Beach up the coast to the Pacific Palisades.
Venice Pride Engagement: Venice Pride consistently hosted the monthly queer dance party, Gaywatch, at diverse venues across Venice Beach. This vibrant event has seen an upward trajectory in popularity, regularly attracting over 300 LGBTQ+ community members each month. It serves as a dynamic platform for dancing, socializing, and strengthening community bonds within the LGBTQ+ population.