The Long Beach Pride Parade is back in full technicolor on Sunday, May 18—and when the last float rolls through Ocean and Alamitos, the celebration doesn’t stop. Just a short walk away, the Current & Shoreline Gateway Plaza transforms once again into the after-party destination: Gateway to Pride.
Co-hosted by the Downtown Long Beach Alliance (DTLB Alliance) and the Long Beach LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, this midday hangout (11 AM to 3 PM) is curated with queer joy and community vibes at the center. Think: A bustling plaza, delicious drinks, good company, and high-energy beats courtesy of local legend DJ Malcolm Alexander.
If his name rings a bell, it’s because you’ve probably danced to his set at December’s Christmas Tree Lighting or caught a glimpse of his global DJ adventures on Instagram—Brazil, Bali, London, you name it. Malcolm brings big love and bold sound wherever he spins, and Gateway to Pride is no exception.
The first 100 people to show up score free Pride swag (yes, actual good stuff), and there’s a laid-back beer garden sponsored by Broken Spirits Distillery. Chill with a cocktail or claim a cozy bench—though with the music bumping, odds are you’ll be on your feet.
Hungry? No problem. Grab a spicy tuna roll from Sushi Beluga, recharge with a latte from Qargo Coffee, fill up with breakfast from EggBred, or stock up at Hi-Lo Liquor Market—all right next to the plaza and open throughout the festivities.
Whether you’re wrapping up your parade march or just joining the party, Gateway to Pride is where Pride Weekend levels up. Downtown Long Beach is showing up loud, proud, and ready to welcome you home.
See you there. And Happy Pride!