Written by: Ryan Yousefi (Photo courtesy of Space Coast Pride

Missing Pride? If so Space Coast Pride takes place Sept. 30 in Melbourne’s historic Eau Gallie Art District. The 10th annual Space Coast Pride Parade & Festival will feature live music, vendors, entertainment, food, beverages, pageants, and even a kid's zone.

“The primary focus (of Space Coast Pride) is to foster a sense of community among LGBT residents and to bridge the divide with our straight families, friends, neighbors, and organizations,” said Scott Wall-DeSousa, the Director of Events for Space Coast Pride. “Space Coast Pride festival and the parade is the pinnacle of our efforts. Space Coast Pride is committed to upholding LGBT interests in Brevard County. This year’s event motto is ‘Healing,’ with last years being ‘Love’ we are following the colors of the Pride Flag and over the past years horrific events it seems fitting for a Central Florida Pride.”

Each year the event has grown exponentially. According to Wall-DeSousa, this year promises to be the biggest event yet.

“Pride in Brevard started with just a couple of people, some of which are still on the board today. It was a small event held at the Wickham Park Pavilion. Three years ago, Pride exploded in Brevard filling the streets of the Historic Downtown Eau Gallie Arts District.” Wall-DeSousa said. “This year is has grown once again. It starts with an evening event from 3 p.m. and our parade and festivities at 5 p.m. This year we have a few celebrity performers such as comedian Sandra Valls and musical artists Sam Tolson and Debby Holiday. Of course, no Pride could be without their local talents of Drag shows and other musical artists, and of Course the Reigning Miss Space Coast Pride.”

Visit SpaceCoastPride.org for more info. Guests are encouraged to reserve hotels early as Pride is just one of the many events happening that weekend. Hilton Rialto, the official host of Space Coast Pride, is selling out quickly.