Friendly Like Me and Come Out With Pride are proud to present the Accessibility Guide to Orlando's 2024 Pride Festival.
One of the Southeast’s largest and most vibrant single-day Pride celebrations returns on October 19, 2024! Over 220,000 attendees are expected to gather in the heart of Orlando for an unforgettable experience. This event not only honors the LGBTQIA+ community but also fosters a sense of belonging and celebration, drawing people from across the nation.
The talented team at Come Out With Pride has thoughtfully designed this event with accessibility as a priority. "We believe everyone should fully experience the joy and celebration of Pride, and we've made a concerted effort to showcase the numerous accessibility features available this year." - Tatiana Quiroga, Executive Pride Director
As you take part in this year’s festival, the organizers welcome your feedback on improving accessibility to ensure everyone feels fully included.
To further enhance your experience, download the Friendly Like Me App to discover, review, and provide valuable insights on accessibility needs. The app is available for download in the Apple App and Google Play Store.
If needed, click here to express any questions, comments, or concerns.
>>>> FRIENDLY ALERT <<<<
Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton have devastated several areas of Florida, causing significant destruction and hardship for many residents and animals. If you would like to help those affected by these natural disasters, please consider donating to the relief efforts. Links to reputable organizations are provided below for those wishing to contribute or provide aid. Your support can make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Access to the Festival & Programming
GETTING THERE
Ride-sharing services and carpooling are recommended due to limited parking availability. Comfort Ride Transportation provides mobility transport services.
PARKING
Parking is free on Eola Drive on the East side of the park along with metered parking on Central Boulevard and Rosalind Avenue. There is also street parking in Eola Heights and Thornton Park, a 2-5 block walk to the park. You can also park in any of the garages within a few blocks of the park, including:- Post Parkside: Located at Osceola Avenue and East Central Boulevard
- Paramount/Publix: Located at Lake Avenue and East Central Boulevard
- Library: Located at 112 East Central Boulevard
ACCESSIBLE PATHWAYS
From the entrance to the park on Pine Street, take the path immediately on your right toward Lake Eola. Follow the map to proceed directly to the ADA viewing areas for each stage. Accessible pathways surround the lake, allowing those in wheelchairs / mobility devices to enjoy the views. Accessible restrooms designated for people with disabilities are available.
THE PARADE
The Come Out With Pride parade kicks off Saturday, October 19th at 4:00pm EDT from East Washington St. and Orange Avenue.
MAIN & DIVA STAGES
- ACCESSIBLE VIEWING AREAS:
Designated accessible viewing areas are located at the front of both the Club Pride Stage and Diva Stage, as well as the parade grandstand. No advance registration is required, and both you and a companion will be accommodated on the day of the event. To ensure you get a seat, it is recommended to arrive early.
- ASL INTERPRETATION: ASL interpreters are present all day at each of the festival stages.
IDENTIFYING HELPERS
- Festival volunteers will be wearing blue-colored volunteer shirts and lanyards.
- Security will be wearing neon shirts.
- Park rangers will be patrolling the grounds on bicycles and will be available to assist.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
If there is a health or safety need contact the nearest volunteer and they will connect you with a police officer or member of the Orlando City Fire department EMS team. Emergency medical crews will assess medical situations and provide care or call for an ambulance.
ACCESSIBLE BATHROOMS
Every restroom area, including the port-a-potties marked on the map, will feature at least one accessible unit. Additionally, the bathrooms in Eola Park are wheelchair accessible.
TAKE A BREAK
The Come Out With Pride festival is held outdoors, where warm weather may affect sensory experiences. For individuals with sensory sensitivities, having a quiet space to escape the heat and noise is essential. This year's "Quiet Zone" offers a calm, comfortable environment for those needing a break to decompress and relax. The wellness tents, surrounded by curtains for shade and privacy, offer amenities such as cooling towels, headphones, fidget toys, tables and chairs, snacks, and cold water.
MOBILITY AID CHARGING AREA
Attendees can recharge their mobility scooters at an outlet located in the "Quiet Zone", as well as inside any of the three onsite wellness tents.
SERVICE ANIMALS
Service animals are welcome at Lake Eola Park, and owners who are able are kindly asked to clean up after their pets.
SOBER SPACE
Presented by Pineapple Healthcare
This year's Pride festival features a Sobriety-Friendly "Sober Space" for those seeking a supportive, sober, and safe environment. Enjoy delicious mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages while mingling with fellow sober Pride attendees. Looking for a sober buddy to explore the festival grounds with? Make the Sober Space your first stop!
FRIENDLY ALERT
The Pride Marketplace is situated in a grassy area. While food vendors are located directly off the paved path, navigating deeper into the Marketplace will involve walking over grass.
QUESTIONS & EXTRA INFORMATION
Attendees with questions in advance of the festival are invited to contact info@comeoutwithpride.org.
Personalized Accessible Adventures
Friendly Like Me
is now and forever a 100% free mobile app you can use to find and review locations all around the country for their specific access needs. In the app, you can build a personalized profile and select from a list of accessibility features to help you know at a glance whether a business is Friendly to you. From bars and hotels to hospitals and parks, we have over six million businesses waiting for you to explore!
Now get out there, go with confidence--and PRIDE!
