The bright message "Love is everyone's" is taking shape in downtown Raleigh as artists and volunteers prepare for the 14th annual festival. The celebration is expected to draw thousands to Fayetteville Street.
2026 marks the first time Out! Raleigh Pride has expanded into a full weekend of events, ending with a drag brunch on Sunday.
Organizers with the LGBT Center of Raleigh say the expanded threeday festival is about more than music, food and entertainment. It's about creating a space where LGBTQ+ people feel seen, safe and supported.
Neash Cameron, the center's community engagement manager, says visibility matters.
"When we see people show up to events like this, it tells us they're getting the message that they are welcomed here," Cameron said.
What to Expect
More than 250 vendors will line the street, including local artists and small businesses who use Pride as a chance to connect with the community.
This year's event features two distinct experiences.
- Friday night will host an adults-only celebration from 6 to 10 p.m. along Fayetteville Street, with live entertainment, vendors and performances in a smaller, two-block footprint.
- Organizers have expanded Saturday into a larger, family-friendly event filled with live music, local artists, food vendors, a KidsZone, a beer garden and community organizations.
Erica Vogel, who runs the art brand Be Like Missy, says Pride gives her a way to support others through her work.
"For me to use my art to help others feel safe has been such a blessing," she said.
Vogel creates a new collection each year, with proceeds benefiting the LGBT Center of Raleigh.
The festival is the center's largest annual fundraiser, supporting programs and services yearround.
Cameron says she's watched the Triangle grow more welcoming to LGBTQ+ families including her own.
"I have a wonderful wife and we share three amazing kids," she said. "Pride to me is being able to walk down the street holding hands with our kids and feel safe."
While Pride began as a protest following the Stonewall uprising, Cameron says today it has evolved into a celebration of community, visibility and the freedom to live authentically.
"The growth tells us that we're doing something right," she said.
Out! Raleigh Pride returns on June 26-27
Road Closure Alert
Drivers should plan ahead for road closures throughout the weekend.
Closures begin at 9 a.m. Friday along Fayetteville Street between Martin Street and the south end of City Plaza, as well as Davie Street between Salisbury Street and Wilmington Street.
Additional closures will be in effect Saturday, including Fayetteville Street between Morgan and Martin streets, along with Hargett and Martin streets between Salisbury and Wilmington streets.
The city is offering free parking in its five city-owned parking garages during the festival.
ABC11 is a sponsor of Out! Raleigh Pride.