Missoula Pride Parade Returns To Downtown This Weekend

Summers in Missoula are always steeped in a relaxed yet lively atmosphere: Caras Park hosts a steady stream of various outdoor events year-round, local breweries set up outdoor stages for live music, Missoulians carry kayaks to the river, and don't even get me started with the Farmer's Market.

It is a typical summer in Missoula.

Photo by Angel

But this weekend is one of the city's biggest annual celebrations as Missoula Pride returns for its fifth year with events happening throughout the city from June 19th through June 21st.

As the centerpiece of this event’s program, the Pride Parade will officially kick off at noon on Saturday, June 20th, with its route stretching down Higgins Avenue. Since its launch, the parade has consistently drawn large numbers of attendees each year.

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images

Honestly, even if you've never attended before, it's worth checking out at least once.

In addition to the parade, there are tons of special events planned for this weekend:

• Pride Parade in Downtown Missoula
• Pride Night with the Missoula PaddleHeads
• Live music performances
• Comedy events
• Community gatherings
• Educational programs and workshops
• Family-friendly activities throughout the weekend

Ben Montgomery/Getty Images

Anyone planning to visit downtown Missoula this Saturday should note that you may be getting your daily steps in as parking will be limited and there may be a line getting into your favorite restaurants.

In other words, it'll feel like a classic Missoula summer weekend.

Love it or hate it, one thing is certain: thousands of people will be heading downtown Saturday afternoon, and the Pride Parade will once again be one of the most talked-about events of the summer.