River City Pride

This Jaxploration only happens once a year and it is one of my favorite experiences. River City Pride is Jacksonville's LGBTQ+ festival that happens in the Five Points district of Riverside. Pride is a two day celebration that usually takes place on a Saturday and Sunday. This year, the weather was less than ideal, however - no spirits were low during the festivities even though rain was pouring down at some points. On Saturday part of Park Street was shut down for vendors and people to walk the streets. There was a DJ playing live music, drinks, dancing, food, and good company. 

At 4pm on Saturday, the pride parade began. During the parade, different businesses that support the community march along with different organizations. It's an awesome way of seeing the community come together. This year there was a surprising number of churches marching as well. Everyone marching was definitely a trooper, considering the route took roughly an hour from start to finish and the rain was so heavy at times. Nevertheless, people were happy, joyful, and connected. On Sunday, vendors set up under the bridge where the Riverside Arts Market is held and it's like a big block party.