Palm Springs Council approves boost in funding for Pride Festival
Luis Avila
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The City of Palm Springs voted 4-0 Wednesday night to approve a proposal that nearly triples the city’s funding for the annual Palm Springs Pride Festival – from $125,000 to $350,000 annually through 2027.
Mayor Ron deHarte, who also serves as the CEO of Greater Palm Springs Pride, recused himself from voting on the funding proposal due to his dual role.
The major increase in the city’s financial support for the event results from organizers facing growing expenses and a lingering budget shortfall.
City officials say the additional money will not go directly to Greater Palm Springs Pride, the nonprofit that organizes the festival, but will instead cover the city’s own costs related to public safety, security, and logistical support during the event.
“Anytime you have a gathering, whether it’s for Pride or another community event, you want to make sure people have a sense of safety and security that they can come out and participate and not have that worry top of mind.”
Ron deHarte, Palm Springs Mayor
A staff report to the City Council cited rising operational and security costs as key factors behind the proposed increase.
City officials also emphasized the festival’s positive economic and cultural impact on Palm Springs. In a statement to News Channel 3:
“Greater Palm Springs Pride produces a weekend of events that attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually, making it an important economic engine that enhances the Palm Springs brand as a resort destination.”
The decision comes as the Pride organization continues to navigate a budget shortfall that recently led to the postponement of the Palm Springs Pride Equality Walk. However, deHarte says community support has helped reduce the deficit.