Massive California Pride celebration called off at last minute as organizers condemn city’s decision
The 42nd annual Long Beach Pride Festival, one of the largest Pride events in California, was canceled hours before its start due to the city's claim that organizers failed to provide necessary safety documentation. Pride organizers strongly criticized the decision, arguing it sends a harmful message to the LGBTQ+ community during a time of increased vulnerability. The cancellation disrupted planned events and sparked debate over community support and safety protocols.
- ▪The Long Beach Pride Festival was canceled because the city did not receive required safety documentation from organizers in time.
- ▪City officials stated they could not complete safety reviews of event infrastructure due to missing information.
- ▪Pride organizers condemned the cancellation, saying it undermines LGBTQ+ visibility and community trust.
- ▪The festival typically draws up to 80,000 attendees over three days and is considered the third-largest Pride event in California.
- ▪Organizers argued the cancellation sends the wrong message amid rising national attacks on LGBTQ+ rights.
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Metro Massive California Pride celebration called off at last minute as organizers condemn city’s decision By Katie Jerkovich Published May 16, 2026, 2:41 p.m. ET One of the largest Pride festivals in the country has been canceled hours before it was set to begin and organizers are slamming the city for the decision, saying it sends the “wrong message” at a critical time for the LGBTQ community. The 42nd annual Long Beach Pride Festival was set to kick off on Friday night, with several day-long events planned on Saturday through Sunday with DJ’s, music, and live performances, drag show, and a ball, per the website. Typically the 3-day-long festival draws up to 80,000 attendees.
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