Long Beach Holds Free Pride Celebration After Festival Cancellation
Long Beach Pride Festival Canceled, But Community Rallies with New Celebration
The city has shut down the Long Beach Pride Festival, citing incomplete paperwork related to public safety requirements, much to the disappointment of event organizers.
In response to the abrupt cancellation, which left many feeling disheartened, organizers quickly pivoted to create an alternative gathering. A new event dubbed "Canceled? Never Heard of Her!" took place on Sunday at Bixby Park, running from noon until 7 p.m. This free celebration aimed to uplift the LGBTQ+ community and was organized in partnership with the city of Long Beach and Visit Long Beach.
"This one actually came together almost organically, out of the need, the interest in the community, to make sure that there was a direct place for people to go right after the parade," said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson.
The cancellation of the Long Beach Pride Festival, a significant annual event, was a major disappointment for the organizers. "This is our number one fundraiser of the year," said Long Beach Pride President Tonya Martin. "Very shocked that we were handed a cease and desist right at the end."
While the city proposed alternative venue options for the festival, the Pride organization did not find them suitable. Despite the setback, they remain optimistic for a strong return in the following year. "We worked so hard, so, you know, but we’re working through it," Martin said. "We’re trying to rise above it and be more accountable and, you know, figure out what we did to enhance this."
Although the cancellation frustrated many attendees, the community’s spirit prevailed. Residents shifted their focus to themes of unity and acceptance. Long Beach resident Natasha Hundreds expressed this sentiment, stating, "It just shows that the community is so hungry for togetherness and to spend time together — that’s what I love. To just come here and have that atmosphere that everyone is friendly and having a good time and celebrate who they are."
In light of the festival’s cancellation, Long Beach Pride has announced that it will refund all vendors and sponsors. The organization has yet to provide information regarding refunds for ticket holders.
