Thousands of spectators attend Palm Springs Pride Parade

Everyone was invited to watch the colorful Palm Springs Pride Parade after pride festivities.

“It was amazing. I mean, look at it, it there's thousands of people here and I couldn't be more proud to be gay and have everybody out here," said visitor Kendall Madsen. “Love is love and you feel it with everybody that you come in contact with."

Madsen has been coming to Palm Springs Pride for nearly 20 years. After a two year pandemic pause, the pride festivities are back.

Organizers said thousands of spectators gathered along the streets to cheer and support the local organizations, activists, and themed floats. Also, in the parade was Palm Springs' new police chief, Andy Mills, who marched alongside the crowd. There were some familiar faces in the parade too: Congressman Raul Ruiz and Mayor Pro Tem Lisa Middelton along with most of the Palm Springs City Council.

“We know a lot of friends that are in the parade, so we're looking for them. And of course, just to see if they've done it up bigger. Since it's been on a hiatus for a few years," said Coachella Valley resident Les Baston.

People also got to explore different booths from the organizations and visit the street fest.

“It's just a beautiful, beautiful weekend. I wish every weekend was like this weekend," said Maden.

Even though pride week comes to an end, it doesn’t change the pride people have in themselves and in their community.