Parade Participant Training & Guidelines
Welcome Parade Participants!
This page contains everything you need to prepare for the 2026 SF Pride Parade. Watch the training video, review the guidelines, and complete your surveys. Questions? Email parade@sfpride.org
Required Training Video
Thank you for participating in the 2026 SF Pride Parade! This year's theme is "Resistance in Action!" — a powerful call to stand up, speak out, and celebrate our community's resilience.
Please watch this video to prepare for the big day. The more you know, the smoother the Parade will go.
In order for your group to be credited with completing this training, your wheel and contingent monitors MUST complete this survey.
Please share this video with ALL your marching participants and vehicle drivers in your contingent so that everyone can be prepared for the big day. Know your role, and know what is expected of you before the day-of.
Thanks!
The SF Pride Team
Parade Guidelines
Bring the theme to life! All contingents must creatively reflect this year's official theme in a tasteful and celebratory way.
Maintain continuous forward motion throughout the parade route.
- No stopping unless directed by SF Pride staff
- Performances and routines must be done while moving
- Keep gaps between contingents under 30 feet
- Help us keep the parade flowing for everyone's enjoyment!
Critical Safety Requirement
Police and Fire Department lanes must remain clear at all times. Do not park, decorate, practice, or gather in emergency access lanes. This is the law.
Mandatory: 1 monitor per 25 participants
No monitors = no parade. Your monitors are essential team members who:
Keep areas clear, especially in front of vehicles
Help coordinate movement and spacing
San Francisco Pride celebrates authentic self-expression in a culture of consent and respect.
Nudity is welcome in both parade and celebration areas.
Express yourself freely while respecting others' boundaries and comfort.
Weather Tip: SF weather is unpredictable!
If you're celebrating au naturel, bring sunscreen and protective gear. Nobody wants a sunburn in unfortunate places! 🧴☀️
Zero tolerance for non-consensual behavior, sexual misconduct, or harassment. We're a community built on inclusivity, respect, and consent.
We love your furry friends! Keep them safe and comfortable:
Requirements
- All animals on leashes
- Constantly attended
- Immediate waste cleanup (bring bags!)
- Provide water
- Footpads recommended for dogs
Violations
$150 cleanup fee plus immediate removal if waste is left on streets. SF Humane Society and ASPCA monitor all animals.
Before the Parade
Required documentation:
- Valid liability insurance
- Valid driver's license
- Submit proof during registration
Vehicle Breakdowns
If your vehicle breaks down or delays the parade, you are responsible for all towing charges. Plan ahead!
Zero Tolerance Policy
Per San Francisco Municipal Code 56.54(a), it is illegal to possess or consume alcohol or drugs in parade staging areas, along the route, or in dispersal areas.
Violations result in:
- Immediate dismissal from parade
- Fines, fees, arrest, or imprisonment per city/state law
- You are personally responsible for all consequences
Please encourage your participants to stay sober before and during the parade. Let's keep everyone safe!
Want to display third-party business logos or sponsorships?
You must receive advance written permission from SF Pride before June 15. Additional fees and conditions apply.
Contact: parade@sfpride.org
Before June 17
Written cancellation eligible for refund minus processing fee
After June 11
No refunds available (no exceptions)
Placement
No refunds for contingent position (no exceptions)
| Fee Paid | Processing Fee | Refund Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Over $350 | $100 | Fee paid minus $100 |
| $350 or less | 25% of fee | 75% of fee paid |
No Solicitation
Money collection and fundraising solicitation are not permitted along the parade route.
Signs, Banners & Position Numbers
Help announcers and cameras identify your contingent:
- Display your organization name on a front banner or prominently on your vehicle
- Attach your position number in a visible location
Marching Together
Want to join forces with another contingent?
- Both groups must register separately in advance
- Include your request in the "Special Requests" field
- Get approval from SF Pride before parade day
- No parade entries may be reassigned to third parties
Legal Stuff
Liability & Indemnification: Contingents are responsible for all acts and omissions by their participants, marchers, volunteers, and employees. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless San Francisco Pride and the City of San Francisco from any claims arising from your participation.
Right to Remove: SF Pride reserves the right to remove any contingent or individual that is offensive, hinders parade progress, endangers participants, or violates these guidelines.
Ready to Make History?
Thank you for being part of San Francisco Pride 2026! Together we create magic.
Questions about training or guidelines?
Contact Parade Team
