Hundreds of Thousands Celebrate Pride Festivals Across Ohio, Florida with Economic and Community Impact

Across the U.S., Pride festivals in 2025 have drawn record numbers and highlighted the importance of community, visibility, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals. St. Petersburg hosted Florida's largest Pride Festival with over 350,000 attendees celebrating love, freedom, and progress, generating nearly $63 million for local businesses. Springfield, Ohio, marked its 10th anniversary Pride with a record turnout, emphasizing ongoing support and resources through groups like Equality Springfield and Free Mom Hugs to combat isolation and suicide in the LGBTQ+ community. Lansing's expanded Pride Festival featured over 200 vendors and thousands of participants enjoying a vibrant celebration in Old Town. Mansfield's 10th annual Pride Festival included hundreds despite weather challenges, featuring grand marshal Chris Dwiggins, a founder of Mansfield Gay Pride, who stressed the importance of preventing setbacks amid current political threats against LGBTQ+ rights. These events collectively underscore Pride's role in fostering fellowship, advocacy, and cultural affirmation nationwide.