San Jose marks a milestone with Silicon Valley Pride's 50th anniversary festival unfolding today, August 30, 2025, and tomorrow, August 31, at Plaza de Cesar Chavez in Downtown San Jose. Themed Unstoppable: 50 Years of Love, Legacy & Liberation, the event starts with evening performances at 6pm tonight, headlined by San Jose native and Latin GRAMMY-nominated rapper Snow Tha Product. Sunday features a parade stepping off at 10:30am along Market Street to Julian Street, leading into an afternoon festival in the plaza. This gathering draws thousands to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community's resilience and contributions in the South Bay.
Founded in 1975 as a simple march for equality, the organization evolved into a full-year supporter of resources, events, and education for local LGBTQ+ individuals. The 2014 rebrand to Silicon Valley Pride expanded its reach to neighboring cities, tripling attendance and quadrupling the budget under visionary leadership. These changes position San Jose as a welcoming tech-savvy center where diversity thrives through community-driven efforts.
Honoring former CEO Thaddeus Campbell, who passed in 2019, the Thaddeus Orlando Campbell Scholarship Fund has provided $31,000 in aid to youth over recent years. This program underscores the festival's role in fostering education and empowerment, extending its influence beyond the weekend to build stronger futures for San Jose residents.
With over 15,000 expected visitors, the event invigorates Downtown San Jose's economy by directing foot traffic to nearby businesses. Collaborations like the kickoff party with the Qmunity district enhance the area's appeal as a hub for LGBTQ+ culture.
Facing national hurdles in diversity, equity, and inclusion funding, Silicon Valley Pride adapts while maintaining its core mission of unity. The festival offers a platform for music, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities that highlight San Jose's commitment to inclusive progress.
Source: SVBJ
