Pride History
Central Alabama Pride, Inc. (CAP) is a vibrant 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to promoting equality, unity, and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community in Alabama. Each year, we bring together tens of thousands of people from across the state to celebrate pride and stand against inequality. Our events not only foster joy and connection but also support local HIV/AIDS service organizations such as Birmingham AIDS Outreach, AIDS Alabama, and the Magic City Wellness Center and Acceptance Center.
Our organization is proudly led by an all-volunteer, unpaid Board of Directors, who passionately oversee the production of our annual Pride events. Supported by dedicated committee members and countless volunteers, CAP strives to create unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. These volunteers are the heart of Pride, ensuring the seamless execution of each event.
Central Alabama Pride has grown exponentially, now attracting over 20,000 attendees annually. Our signature event, PrideFest, is a free, outdoor celebration that draws together the LGBTQ+ community, their allies, and supporters for a day filled with food, live music, and headlining entertainment. PrideFest is the pinnacle of a 10+ day series of events in June, which also includes our iconic Pride Parade—a high-energy, Mardi Gras-style night parade that has become a beloved tradition since its inception in 1989.
From its humble beginnings as Birmingham’s first organized Pride celebration, “Day in the Park,” held on June 24, 1979, CAP has continued to evolve and grow. The 2000s marked significant milestones, including expanding Pride into a multi-day celebration, moving the Pride Parade to Saturday nights, and introducing various events such as pageants and town hall meetings. Today, we honor this legacy with an ever-expanding calendar of Pride events that provide safe, inclusive, and joyous spaces for everyone to express their true selves.
Pride in Birmingham has always been community-driven, and we rely on your support—both financial and in terms of participation—to keep it thriving. In recent years, CAP has also formed alliances with other Pride organizations across Alabama, including those in Tuscaloosa, Auburn, Troy, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Together, we’re building a stronger, more unified LGBTQ+ presence throughout the state.
As we continue to grow, we remain committed to creating spaces where every member of our community feels seen, heard, and celebrated. With your help, Central Alabama Pride will keep expanding, welcoming more people, and spreading the message of equality for all. Join us as we make history and take pride in our collective journey toward a brighter, more inclusive future.