Festival Passes will be available at the Pride Kick Off on June 2nd.

Why is Pride St. Louis charging a festival pass?

For the first time in our 45-year history, Pride St. Louis is introducing a modest ticket price for PrideFest. This was not a decision we made lightly. After several of our largest corporate sponsors reduced or withdrew their support, we faced a $150,000 funding gap. In response, we launched the #45for45 grassroots campaign, and our community stepped up in a major way to help us close that gap.

At the same time, we knew that we could not continue to rely on a financial model that leaves our celebration vulnerable to the shifting priorities of corporate partners. Charging admission helps ensure a more sustainable future for Pride St. Louis. It allows us to continue putting on a high-quality event while expanding our year-round programming and outreach. This year, PrideFest is not presented solely by a corporation. It is presented by you — our community.

Has Pride St. Louis charged in the past?

No. This is the first time in Pride St. Louis’s 45-year history that we will have a festival pass admission to PrideFest. We believe this step is necessary to ensure the long-term stability of our organization and the events we host.

What does my festival pass get me?

Your $10 festival pass gives you access to both Saturday and Sunday of PrideFest. You do not need to buy separate festival passes for each day. Your festival pass helps cover the costs of safety, entertainment, sanitation, and logistics, and also supports Pride St. Louis’s year-round efforts including volunteer opportunities, community meals, scholarships, and educational events.

Do the youth need a festival pass?

Youth 13 years and under may enter the festival for free when accompanied by an adult with a festival pass. No separate festival pass is required for eligible youth.

Where can I get festival pass?

You can purchase your festival pass online at pridestl.org/festivalpass. We encourage you to buy your festival pass in advance to help streamline your entry to the festival.

Can I buy festival pass in advance?

Yes. You can buy your festival pass anytime at pridestl.org/festivalpass. We highly recommend purchasing in advance to save time at the gates.

Can I buy festival pass at the gates?

Yes. We will be accepting cash and credit card payments at the gates on both Saturday and Sunday.

Where do I get wristbands?

You can pick up your wristband at the Pride Kickoff event, as well as at various pop-up events taking place throughout the month of June. If you cannot make it to one of these events, you can also get your wristband at the festival gates when you arrive.

How does the wristband work?

Once you’ve purchased your festival pass, you will receive a wristband that gives you entry to the festival grounds for both days. If you get your wristband ahead of time, you can skip the purchasing line and walk right in.

Is re-entry allowed with a wristband?

Yes. Your wristband allows re-entry to the festival grounds on both days. Just make sure you are still wearing your original wristband when you return.

What about a beverage Wristband?

We have eliminated the fee for a 21+ wristband, there is no additional charge for a beverage wristband.

What if I can't afford a festival pass?

We believe that Pride should be accessible to everyone. If you are unable to afford the $10 ticket, free admission options are available through our community partners. Please fill out the application HERE if you are in need.

Will anyone be turned away from PrideFest?

As Deborah Cox says, “Absolutely not!” We have committed community partners to assist with access and the option to purchase a festival pass for those that are in need.

Is the Pride Parade still free?

Yes. The Grand Pride Parade in Honor of Vivent Health, remains free and open to the public. No festival pass or wristband is required to attend the parade. The Parade kicks off at Noon on Saturday, June 29th down Market Street in Downtown St. Louis.

Are festival passes refundable or transferable?

No. All festival pass sales are final. Tickets are not refundable or transferable under any circumstances.

What if I lose my wristband?

Wristbands will not be replaced if lost. Please keep your wristband secure and on your wrist at all times during the festival.

Is the event rain or shine?

Yes. PrideFest will take place rain or shine. We will not be issuing refunds in the event of inclement weather.

Will there be security or bag checks?

Yes. We are committed to the safety of all of our guests. Security personnel will be present at all entry points and bag and stroller checks will be conducted upon arrival.

What if I purchased the VIP Experience Pass?

The purchase of a VIP Experience Pass includes the Festival Pass. You will only wear the VIP Experience wristband.

What if I donate to the 45for45 campaign?

We are thankful for the widespread generosity of the community. Please email tickets@pridestl.org and will email a code to all those that donated $45 or more to receive a Festival Pass.

Can I pay for a festival pass for those that may not be able to?

Yes. We believe in our community supporting one another. Any additional purchase will help us and our community partners ensure everyone can access PrideFest.