The 2026 Montana Pride Parade steps off Saturday, August 8, beginning at Anchor Park and marching down Last Chance Gulch to the MainStage at 400 N. Last Chance Gulch. Admission is free, and organizers are encouraging participants to dress in their most colorful attire for what is consistently one of the most attended community events on Helena's summer calendar.
The parade route takes marchers through the heart of the Walking Mall, putting the celebration squarely in front of Last Chance Gulch's shops, restaurants, and galleries. The MainStage setup at the northern end of the Gulch suggests a post-parade festival component, though a full schedule of performers and speakers had not been posted as of this report.
Montana Pride has grown steadily in recent years, drawing participants from across the state to Helena for the annual march. This year's event falls on a Saturday, which typically boosts turnout from communities outside the capital. Residents should expect periodic pedestrian and vehicle traffic adjustments along the Gulch route during the event.