Springfield Pride Parade 2025: dates, events, parade route

Springfield Pride Parade in Massachusetts returns for its 4th annual edition on Saturday, June 7, 2025! Though a newer Pride, it has quickly become a beacon of empowerment for LGBTQIA+ youth in the region. The Springfield Pride Parade spans an entire weekend (June 5-7) of events, culminating in a lively parade through downtown Springfield and a block party celebration.

With a mission centered on uplifting young LGBTQIA+ individuals, Springfield’s Pride offers a heartfelt, community-focused experience amidst the urban backdrop of Massachusetts’ third-largest city.

YOU Ball Fundraising Gala

A unique Springfield touch, the You Ball is a gala fundraiser blending a vogue ball with an elegant dinner happening on June 6th. The 2025 gala theme is “Iconic Studio 54”, bringing disco glamour to Pride. Attendees dress in 70s chic (sequins, jumpsuits) and enjoy performances.

But the night is not just about nostalgic nightclub music and fashion. Proceeds from You Ball will go toward supporting Springfield Pride Parade Organization's youth programs, particularly the Safe Space After School program, which ensures Springfield's LGBTQ+ youth have safe environments to grow and thrive.

Springfield Pride Parade: An All-Day Celebration

Pre-parade, a Youth Pride Rally or family gathering happens at the start location (in previous years, they’ve had a short speaking program).

The main event kicks off at noon. The route, as in 2024, goes from Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) through downtown to Stearns Square. This ~1.5 mile route takes you past landmarks like the Springfield Armory site and down Main Street.

The parade itself is vibrant and youth-centric. Local high school GSAs and college LGBTQ+ groups march proudly, often chanting affirmations to closeted youth in the crowd. 

You’ll see floats from local businesses, community organizations, and lavish drag performances on flatbeds. But also expect creative entries like a Pride Step Team, a vogue dance troupe, roller derby skaters in Pride gear, and Springfield’s famous “Scooby Doo” Mystery Machine van decked out in rainbows (a quirky annual favorite).

Last year drew "thousands of participants and spectators." For  2025, they anticipate even more. Families line the streets with Pride flags, and downtown businesses hang rainbow banners in support.