Published on Tuesday, June 18, 2024

By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The Costa Rica Pride Parade will gather tens of thousands of people to march on Sunday, June 30.

According to Pride Costa Rica, the organization coordinating the gay community parade, a massive influx of people are expected to attend the peaceful march to promote and defend LGBTQIA+ rights, which refers to the community of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer, or asexual.

The event will begin at noon in Sabana Central Park, go along Second Avenue and end at the Democracy Square in downtown San José. It will end with a concert featuring local pop artists.

Representatives from embassies, institutes, government, towns, ministries, human rights groups, private corporations, and people are scheduled to march alongside the thousands of others.

The march is also supported by organizations such as the Federation of Students of the University of Costa Rica and the Federation of Students of the National University, among others.

There will be a police presence on duty during the march. As with any major event, everyone is responsible for safety, including attendees, organizers and security personnel.

Authorities remind parade participants to avoid becoming victims of a crime by keeping in mind the following safety tips:

• Keep an eye out for one another and notify a police officer if you notice anything unusual.

• Keep your friends near. Never accept beverages from strangers.

• Drink responsibly, and don't drive. If you drink, always choose a designated driver.

• Remember to take your valuables with you; do not leave them in your car.

• Maintain possession of your cell phone, wallet and other valuables.

• Stay with a group when on the street.

• If you're going with kids, arrive early to secure an adequate spot. As soon as you arrive, plan your getaway because the main streets become congested at times. Stay for about an hour and then start walking up to the festival exit.

• Bring earplugs for youngsters since some of the carnival bands can be really loud as they pass by.

• Bring plenty of food and drink for the children and don't waste time searching for food.

• Don't forget sunscreen for kids.

• Bring an umbrella to keep kids dry if there are afternoon rains.

The first Pride Parade in Costa Rica was held in 2003.

Costa Rica legalized civil marriage for same-sex couples in 2020.

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What have you heard about expats supporting the Costa Rica Pride Parade?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com