Hotels around Biloxi
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About Biloxi
The region's Pride is called Gulf Coast Pride. It is run by the Gulf Coast Association of Pride, a nonprofit that works for LGBTQ+ people along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. It takes place in June, and it is a festival rather than a parade through the streets.
For many years the festival was held in Biloxi, at Point Cadet Plaza on the eastern tip of the peninsula, right by the water. It has since moved to Gulfport, to Jones Park by the harbor, a few miles west. Anyone planning to go should check the association's website to see where it is being held. The grounds offer a stage program with drag and music, booths from nonprofits, health services and local businesses, and food and drinks.
A second date on the calendar is the Gulf Coast Equality Fest. It is organized by the Gulf Coast Equality Council, based in Gulfport, which advocates for LGBTQ+ rights along the whole coast.
Mississippi is one of the most conservative states in the country, and queer visibility cannot be taken for granted here. That makes the Pride days all the more important for people who live on the coast. Biloxi itself has two queer bars, Just Us Lounge and Club Veaux, where many people head after the festival. The nearest city with a large Pride is New Orleans, about an hour and a half west by car.
Nearby Prides
From the magazine
Going to Pride Alone: Plan Your First Visit at Your Own Pace
Going to Pride alone is common, and it can give you room to decide what feels right. A simple plan for arrival, breaks and your journey home helps you stay open to the day.
Volunteering at Pride: What happens behind the scenes
Pride events rely on people at information points, around the venue and behind the scenes. This guide helps you choose a role and arrive with realistic expectations.
Pride is a public assembly, not a favour
Pride is often festive, but it is also a way to gather publicly and demand equality. What that means for organisers and visitors.