Capital City Pride

Capital City Pride Weekend 2025

Capital City Pride is a vibrant and colorful rainbow celebration of the LGBTQ+ community that takes place annually in Des Moines, Iowa. Pride weekend Des Moines is a time when people of all backgrounds and identities come together to celebrate love, equality, and acceptance.

Festival - June 6 - 8

The festival and its activities are held in the East Village (the gayborhood) of Des Moines. The areas from Sherman Hill to Drake University are also LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhoods. Most of the events will be centered around the East Village at the local LGBTQ+ venues and the block party on Saturday will also be held here. If you love to be active, join in or donate to Capital City Pride Stride 5K.

Pride Parade - June 8

A celebration of community and culture, the pride parade honors LGBTQ+ social and self-acceptance, legal rights, achievements and of course, pride! The route starts at noon promptly at the Iowa State Capital and travels down Grand Avenue into the Historic East Village. After the parade, the festivities will continue in the East Village at the local LGBTQ+ venues around the area. Have fun and let your pride shine in Des Moines!

History

The history of Des Moines' pride dates back to 1979, when a group of activists and advocates came together to organize the first pride event in the city. At the time, the LGBTQ+ community was facing a great deal of discrimination and harassment, and there was a real need for a safe and supportive space where people could gather and celebrate their identities.

Over the years, Capital City Pride has grown and evolved into an amazing event that grows bigger and grander each year. Today, the event draws tens of thousands of people from all over the country, who come to enjoy the festivities and show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Event Details

The organizers of the event strive to create a space where people of all backgrounds and identities can feel welcome and supported, and where everyone can come together to celebrate the values of love and acceptance.

The festival itself is a riot of color and energy, with a diverse range of events and activities that cater to people of all ages and interests. There are live performances from local and national musicians, drag shows, art exhibitions, and a range of food and drink vendors selling delicious treats.

Why Pride is Important

But it's not just about the parties and fun – Capital City Pride is also an important opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges and struggles that the LGBTQ+ community continues to face. Throughout the event, there are educational workshops and panels that cover topics such as LGBTQ+ history, health, and advocacy, as well as opportunities to connect with local organizations and learn how you can get involved in the fight for equality.

So if you're looking for a fun, vibrant, and inclusive celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, Capital City Pride is definitely an event that you won't want to miss. Whether you're gay, straight, or anything in between, this is a festival that truly embodies the spirit of love, acceptance, and community – and it's an experience that you will want to be a part of!

Try Out Local Gay Bars in Town

Try The Garden, Buddy’s Corral, or The Blazing Saddle.

Popular Hotels in the Area

AC Hotel Des Moines East Village, Embassy Suites, Surety Hotel, or the Staybridge Suites.