LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) — The city of Long Beach announced Friday it has canceled this weekend’s Long Beach Pride Festival, citing apparent permitting issues, though Sunday’s parade will still take place.
City officials said the festival, which had been scheduled to start Friday at 5 p.m. with Teen Pride and continue Saturday and Sunday, will not move forward as planned.
“Unfortunately, one event, the Long Beach Pride Festival, will not be able to take place this year as sufficient information to safely permit the event has not been made available by the event organizers,” the city said in a statement.
“Despite continued collaboration and multiple deadline notices, the city did not receive the required documentation needed to complete safety reviews, inspect critical event infrastructure, such as the stage, electrical systems and tent, and emergency exiting plans to ensure compliance with public safety standards,” the city’s statement also said.
The parade, scheduled to start 10 a.m. Sunday, and other Pride-related events will continue as planned.
“Many restaurants, bars and LGBTQ+-affirming businesses in vibrant Downtown Long Beach and along Broadway will also be hosting celebrations throughout the weekend, and the City encourages the community to show their support by visiting them,” the city’s statement said.
Long Beach Pride said it is “deeply disappointed” by the city’s decision to cancel the festival.
“We call on the City of Long Beach to immediately engage in good faith with Long Beach Pride, community leaders, public safety partners, and elected officials to identify a path forward that preserves the festival and protects the community,” Long Beach Pride said.
“We call on our Mayor Rex Richardson and the city council members to make the Pride Festival happen. We ask that our city leaders stand with the community at this critical moment and help ensure that Long Beach remains a beacon of equality, safety, and pride.”
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