St. Petersburg prepares for St. Pete Pride festivities

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Local groups and businesses are gearing up for one of the biggest events here in the Tampa Bay area! St. Pete Pride festivities begin Friday evening.

People can expect live music, food, drinks, fun activities and a Pride Parade on Saturday.

“Tons of local vendors, so many opportunities for people to get out and engage with entrepreneurs and organizations that really want to support the queer community,” said Dr. Byron Green-Calisch of St. Pete Pride.

Jelani Martinez owns a clothing store in downtown St. Petersburg called Sartorial Inc. and said he looks forward to St. Pete Pride every year.

“Having LGBTQ family in my family, it’s really important that it’s a safe space,” Martinez said.

He said he loved seeing everyone so happy.

“The connection between St. Pete and Pride is really wonderful, just because it’s a friendly environment,” Martinez said.

Not only is it a fun event to attend, but Geen-Calisch with St. Pete Pride, said it’s a time to celebrate the history of Pride.

“Taking this moment to recognize how far we’ve come and really recharge our batteries with other people who believe we have a right to exist,” Green-Calisch said.

Since St. Pete Pride is one of the largest events in the Tampa Bay area, local business owners said they’re excited to welcome people to town and show off what their stores have to offer. to offer.

“During our events, we integrate approximately 500,000 people into the local economy,” Green-Calisch said.

Martinez said he usually sees an increase in business during the festival.

Samantha Levy works at Coastal Soul Boutique and is preparing to welcome any out-of-town visitors.

“I think it’s very exciting to see so many people around and so many people looking for small items to buy,” Levy said.

Martinez hopes everyone who comes this weekend has a good time.

“It’s really beautiful. It’s really heartwarming,” Martinez said.