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Tampa, FL - Tampa Pride has announced a one-year pause for its 2026 festival, parade, and related events, citing financial and political challenges that make sustaining operations difficult.
The announcement was made in a letter from the Tampa Pride Board dated August 1st, 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of President Carrie West’s contract on August 31st, 2025.
The board explained that difficulties securing corporate sponsorships, reductions in county, state, and federal grant funding, and the discontinuation of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs under Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have created significant obstacles for the organization.
These factors contributed to the decision to place all Tampa Pride events on hiatus for the upcoming year.
The organization acknowledged the festival and parade’s economic impact on local businesses and its important role for the LGBTQIA+ community.
The board emphasized that the pause is necessary to regroup, reassess long-term strategies, and identify additional funding avenues to ensure the future stability of Tampa Pride events.
Carrie West, who has led the organization for 12 years, was recognized for her contributions and service, which the board said had a lasting effect on Tampa Pride and the community.
West’s leadership helped grow the festival into a widely recognized event showcasing inclusivity and diversity in the region.
The hiatus aligns with a broader trend in the United States, where some companies and organizations have scaled back support for Pride events due to political pressures and reduced funding for DEI initiatives.
At this time, no alternative events for 2026 have been confirmed, though community members and local organizations are exploring ways to maintain LGBTQIA+ visibility and support during the pause.