Toledo Pride turns sweet 16 this year, and we can’t think of a better reason to dance in the streets. From fierce parades to retro beats, this three-day celebration is packed with everything we love: community, color, and of course, killer music from the ’80s and ’90s. Whether you’re a longtime ally or living your most authentic life, here are the top three things we’re hyped about for Toledo Pride 2025.
#1
#The Weekend is a Full-On Rainbow Takeover
Toledo Pride 2025 runs Friday, August 15 to Sunday, August 17 at Promenade Park, and each day brings a different kind of magic.
- Friday Night kicks things off with the Nite Glo 5K and Fun Run—a glow-in-the-dark sprint (or stroll!) through downtown that’s perfect for showing off your neon sweatbands and retro flair.
- Saturday is the heart of it all, with the annual Toledo Pride Parade stepping off at noon from 17th and Adams. It winds through the city with floats, dancers, drag royalty, and more. It’s a massive, family-friendly celebration of love and visibility.
- Sunday wraps up with the Big Rainbow Brunch Crawl, where a $5 wristband gets you access to themed drinks and delicious brunches across downtown bars and cafes. Think: bottomless mimosas with a side of Madonna.
#2
The Parade is Packed with Pride (and Confetti)
Saturday’s Pride Parade is the kind of event that sticks with you. It’s loud, proud, and full of energy, with over 50 groups marching alongside floats, bands, local organizations, and tons of local support. You’ll spot everything from roller derby teams and student groups to churches and small businesses flying the rainbow flag.
Pro tip: Grab a spot early along Adams Street and bring something to wave. If you’re lucky, you might even catch some free swag or glittery beads.
#3
It’s All About Music, Love, and Community
Toledo Pride has always been more than just a party—it’s about connection. This year features live performances, over 100 vendors, and community booths offering everything from free health screenings to local art. You’ll hear everything from drag queen lip-sync battles to tribute acts covering the best of the ’80s and ’90s.
We’re talking Whitney. Prince. TLC. Janet. Spice Girls. Britney. And of course, the dance floor-filling anthems that made those decades legendary. It’s a dream weekend for any Sweet 419 listener.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never been to Toledo Pride, this is the year to go big. It’s a joyful, inclusive, and unforgettable experience that brings together people of all backgrounds to celebrate love in every form. And with 16 years under its glittery belt, 2025’s event promises to be the best yet.
We’ll see you there—fanny packs on, playlists loaded, and hearts wide open.
For full event details, visit ToledoPride.com.
Sweet 419 is proud to support events that celebrate our vibrant LGBTQIA+ community. Want more ’80s and ’90s hits with heart? Stream us anytime at Sweet419.com, tell Alexa to enable “Sweet Four One Nine,” or jam in the car using the Stream 419 app. Toledo’s ’80s and ’90s station—for Pride and beyond.
