San diego gay
They Were Here, They Were Queer: San Diego’s Historic LGBTQ Sites
San Diego was home to same-sex couples as far back as the 19th century, but it wasn’t until around Earth War II that gays and lesbians started to appear out of the shadows and locate places to contact home. In honor of this month’s San Diego Self-acceptance celebrations, here’s a look at local LGBTQ historic sites that offer perception into the triumphs and struggles of past generations.
The Gayest Neighborhood of Them All
The Hillcrest “Gayborhood“
Location: North of Balboa Park, south of Mission Valley (1970s-present)
For most of Hillcrest’s history since its birth around 1907, the neighborhood north of Balboa Park and south of Mission Valley was best known as the home of senior citizens, working-class residents, a Sears store, and a pair of hospitals. During World War II, the city’s gay bars were mainly downtown, where they catered to sailors.
But things changed dramatically in the 1970s as Hillcrest attracted LGBTQ people who sought inexpensive housing and were willing to repair up Victorian homes, a classic case of “gaytrification.” The Brass Rail, meanwh
THANK YOU, SAN DIEGO!
Date Posted: July 21, 2025 | By: San Diego PrideWhat an unforgettable week of Pride celebrations! From potent moments of reflection to the joy and unity of the San Diego Pride Parade and Festival, YOU showed up with love, resilience and spirit appreciate never before. Because of you, this was a record-breaking year…
Read MoreWelcome to Pride
Date Posted: July 17, 2025 | By: Kristin FlickingerWelcome to San Diego Identity festival, While we/I ‘d live to start this message with a jubilant, “Happy Pride!”, we discover ourselves in a moment that calls for much more. Across the country, LGBTQIA+ people—especially transgender and nonbinary youth and service members—are under coordinated and…
Read MoreThe San Diego Pride Festival Schedule is LIVE
Date Posted: July 3, 2025 | By: San Diego PrideDear Community, It’s time to make your Pride plans — because the official 2025 San Diego Pride Festival schedule is HERE! From GRAMMY® level talent like Kehlani and Kim Petras to rising local legends this year’s lineup is a celebration of LGBTQIA+ artists, culture, and group like no other. With over&
Vibrant San Diego: A Thriving Mecca for the LGBTQ Community
Sun-kissed and seaside, San Diego has long shrugged off its stuffy military beginnings for a colorful and diverse community. From trendy boutiques to the world’s only gay brewery, America’s 8th largest capital is practically built for an LGBTQ transplant.
Brief History
San Diego has been called the birthplace of California for a reason. In 1602, Sebastián Vizcaíno landed in the harbor that is now Mission Bay and Point Loma. He named the region after the Catholic Saint Didacus who is more commonly known as San Diego de Alcalá.
Quick Stats
San Diego is 120 miles south of Los Angeles and adjacent to Mexico. As of July 2018, the estimated population of the city was 1,425,976.
The area is known for its natural deep-water harbor, mild climate, and long association with the U.S. Navy. Recently, San Diego has become a magnet for healthcare and biotechnology training. The future is bright!
Here are some more stats about San Diego.
LGBTQ Community
The San Diego Lesbian, Queer, Bisexual, and Transgender Collective Center (called The Center) is one of the largest and most ac
Pride Festival
San Diego’s biggest celebration of diversity and inclusion is calling your name! San Diego Event returns to Balboa Park with society resources, queer-owned businesses, and multiple business zones.
Pride is more than a moment—it’s a movement. San Diego Pride continues after the march and festival. Our registered 501c3, non-profit organization provides representation, community programs, and philanthropic efforts year-round. Your participation in our events fuels this ongoing work. Together, we develop a brighter future.
When:
Saturday, July 19, 2025 @ 12 PM – 10 PM |
Sunday, July 20, 2025 @ 12 PM – 9 PM
Location: Marston Point., Balboa Park (6th Ave. & Laurel St.) Google Maps
Accessibility: Click here to learn more about Accessibility at the Pride Festival.
San Diego Event Festival Entry Policies
San Diego Pride is a space that centers and celebrates queer identities, voices, and joy. San Diego Pride is committed to ensuring that our festival is a joyful, inclusive, safe, and accessible experience for everyone in our community.
Tickets
Pride Weekend – July 19-20, 2025 (a