Russian River Pride
Guerneville 2026

Russian River Pride Guerneville 2026

Discover a unique and charming Pride escape in Russian River and enjoy a warm welcome during a weekend pride celebrations.

• Guerneville is a popular weekend destination throughout the Summer season, so book your hotel early. Check out the Highlands Resort, rated “Exceptional” by guests with an outdoor pool, charming rooms and a wide range of amenities.

The Event

• Next Edition: Saturday 19th September, 2026.
• Guerneville Pride : where the redwoods meet the rainbow!
• The Town of Guerneville in Russian River celebrates its own unique pride event in Sonoma County.
• Guerneville Pride's mission is to provide a vibrant blend of fun, health-focused, and community-building activities.
• Stay at The Stravand, rated “Superb” by guests featuring  an outdoor swimming pool, 23 hour front desk, perfect location and beautifully decorated rooms.

The Parade

• Saturday 19th September, 2026 – A colourful parade will make its way down Guerneville's Main Street from midday.

Guerneville Pride Festival

• 2026 Schedule to be confirmed – use the following as a guide:
• Events continue after the main parade at the Pride Festival at Johnson's Beach.
• This beach spot on the Russian River is a popular place for sunbathing, swimming, and water activities. It's known to attract a diverse crowd, including many from the LGBTQ+ community.
• Guerneville is a haven where everyone's invited to the party. Come for the trees, stay for the pride.

Other Events

• A weekend long celebration with a mix of party, reflection, community, performance, and relaxation.
• There are late-night events, daytime gatherings, arts and culture, and family friendly moments.
• Deep connection to history, especially HIV/AIDS response. There will be events (like the RR Response to AIDS/HIV) that are about remembering, educating, and honoring those who were part of the struggle.
• A strong local component: vendors, food, performers from the area. Also nonprofits and community groups are involved through grants, volunteering, etc.
• Variety in event types: performance (drag, variety shows), social (pool party, brunch), late-night dance or nightlife (Pride After Dark), family / intergenerational gathering. Something for everyone.
• Outdoors + local scenery matters. Guerneville is in the Russian River region, with redwoods, river settings, resorts/hotels, etc. Many events make use of those natural / scenic settings.
• Expect crowds, especially during the parade + festival. Main Street gets lively. Street closures or areas especially busy. Vendors, food, entertainment spread across locations (Main St, Lark Drugs parking, Guerneville Plaza)

Gay Guerneville

• Since the 1970s, LGBT travelers have claimed this friendly Russian River Valley outpost as their own.
• Guerneville is located in a beautiful woodland setting about 90 minutes north of San Francisco.
• Set among majestic redwood forests on the banks of the Russian River, the tucked-away hamlet has been the go to gay getaway for Bay Area weekenders for decades earning it the nickname of the ‘Gay Riviera'.
• For a unique taste of Guerneville hospitality, stay at the Mine and Farm, The Inn, rated “Superb” by guests with a great location and famous for its delicious breakfasts and warm welcome.

Our Top Tips

• Add some indulgence to your day with a wine or champagne tasting at some of the leading wineries in the area, or follow country roads south towards Healdsburg, sampling acclaimed Pinot Noirs and Zinfandels at countless wineries along the way.

Popular Bars

• At night catch the action at the landmark Rainbow Cattle Co., a party destination since 1979 or the Bar at the R3 Hotel, another long standing favorite of the LGBTQ crowd.

Restaurants and Cafes

• Big Bottom Market: Offering delicious biscuits and gourmet market goods, it's not only gay-owned but also a spot embraced by everyone in the community.
• boon eat + drink: A chic bistro that serves modern California cuisine made from local ingredients. Gay-owned and very gay-friendly.
• El Barrio: A stylish spot with a mix of Mexican flavors and craft cocktails in a vibrant ambiance.
• Main Street Bistro: Great for live music and a fun, relaxed environment. They serve pizzas, pastas, and more.

Where to stay in Guerneville?

Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews and keep you close to all the action

Applewood Inn ,    Cottages On River,    Santa Nella House,    The Woods Resort