Thousands attend 2024 Twin Cities Pride Parade in downtown Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS — Thousands headed to downtown Minneapolis to attend the Twin Cities Pride Parade on Sunday.

The parade kicked off at 11 a.m., starting at Third Street and Hennepin Avenue. The parade went down Hennepin and ended at Spruce Place around 2 p.m.

Supporters of all ages came out to cheer on those in the parade. One in attendance said a few things stood out about the parade over the others he's seen.

"The one thing I noticed that it's very wholesome, it's very family-friendly, it's very community-oriented," said Jacob Dunlap. "I feel like everyone is really represented. I've seen other cities where maybe it's skewed, but here in Minnesota, I'm comfortable. I'm really happy to see the whole community out here celebrating together."

Organizers say the parade attracts more than 200,000 people to downtown Minneapolis each year.

Along the parade route, there were various grandstands, including an accessibility grandstand that ensured everyone can enjoy the festival. This grandstand will feature an interpreter, seating areas for those with wheelchairs and an ADA restroom.

Festivities kicked off Sunday with the Rainbow Run. Not only were runners competing for the best time, but there was also a contest for the best race outfits.

Pride organizer J'Kalein Madison says this year, the theme is "Pride 365," an ode to living as your true self year-round.

"Pride is not just one month in the year, you are who you are all through the year, all 365 days," Madison said. "I'm so looking forward to just seeing all different types of walks of life. Everyone living their true self throughout this park throughout this weekend."

Madison says many in the LGBTQ+ community are coming into the celebration with heavy hearts, as they mourn the loss of a prominent DJ in the Twin Cities community, a trans woman named Liara Tsai , who was murdered just one weekend ago by a former partner.

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If you or someone you know in the LGBTQ+ community needs support, there are numerous resources and services available through Outfront Minnesota , NAMI and Twin Cities Pride .