Long Beach Pride Festival Faces Challenges Amid Permit Issues
Long Beach Pride Festival Cancellation Sparks Controversy
The much-anticipated Long Beach Pride Festival has been canceled just hours before its scheduled start, following the city’s issuance of a cease-and-desist order over missing permits and public safety documentation. Long Beach City Manager Tom Modica stated that attempts to salvage the event by offering alternative venues were declined by festival organizers.
As public outcry grew over the abrupt cancellation, Modica detailed the city’s last-minute efforts to accommodate the festival. “We’ve been working the last 24 hours to offer them different opportunities to bring about 3,000 of their guests into the Terrace Theater and also to do something at Bixby Park on Sunday,” he said. “But unfortunately, I don’t believe they’re able to do those two things.”
Long Beach Pride President Tonya Martin did not respond to requests for comment regarding these alternative arrangements.
The festival was officially shut down on Friday afternoon, shortly before its opening event, Teen Pride, was set to commence at Marina Green Park. City officials noted that critical operational plans necessary for permits had not been provided, including documentation concerning structural engineering, electrical systems, staging, and emergency exits.
“This really is about public safety,” Modica emphasized. “When you invite thousands of people into a space, it’s got to be a safe space.” He added that the city had been working with the organizers for months and had extended flexibility due to the nonprofit nature of the festival.
Modica explained that complications arose when organizers changed production companies just days before the event. “They changed production companies on Wednesday,” he said. “On Thursday, we had to let them know 24 hours before it started; we did not have any of the sign-offs for structural, engineering, electrical, exiting plans.”
In a statement released Friday, Martin expressed the organization’s disappointment, asserting that they believed all required documentation had been submitted.
The cancellation has fueled frustration within the LGBTQ+ community and among local businesses that depend on the bustling Pride weekend. The festival, now in its 43rd year, is among Long Beach’s largest celebrations, typically attracting thousands of visitors.
Despite the cancellation of the festival, the Long Beach Pride Parade is still scheduled to take place on Sunday at 10 a.m. Modica affirmed the city’s commitment to the event, stating, “Pride is incredibly important to the city of Long Beach. We love the event that happens here every year.” This year’s parade will feature 141 entries, marking the largest lineup in the event’s history.
