We are not having a parade or festival in 2021. Here's why.

When Dallas Pride started planning our events for 2021, we were in the midst of the pandemic, long before vaccines were available. We got together with our sponsors, the health department and those who would have parade entries, and we had a lot of discussions. A lot. Everyone wanted to have something in person, but the prospect of having large-scale events like parades or festivals was not something any of us were comfortable with. We were committed to having something in person, though, and a smaller, scaled-down event was something we decided could be done safely. We then expanded that vision to include two nights of events to allow as many people as possible to come to an in-person Dallas Pride in 2021.

But we didn't stop there: Being inclusive is part of our DNA, so we made the decision early on to livestream both nights of entertainment for free. Free? Yes, free! Anyone may view the fantastic content that our team of performers, sponsors and volunteers have created to celebrate Pride in 2021. Our two evening showcases are sold out now, so log on to dallaspridestream.org on Friday and Saturday nights to see the show, and don't miss your chance to celebrate with us.

Dallas Pride is a non-profit organization with a goal of raising visibility, awareness and support for the LGBTQ+ community. While we have a lot of fun doing this, we take this role very seriously. And it takes all of us together to accomplish this; Pride is bigger than any one of us. While there is no parade or festival this year -- and we look forward to their return -- Dallas Pride lives through our organization, through our community, and through our coming together to celebrate who we are. Please, celebrate with us.

Thank you, and Happy Pride Month, everyone!