Palm Springs Considers Boosting Pride Festival Funding to $350,000 Annually Through 2027

The City of Palm Springs is weighing a major funding increase for its annual Pride celebration, one of the city's largest and most iconic events. At this Wednesday’s City Council meeting, officials will vote on whether to raise annual financial support for Greater Palm Springs Pride from $125,000 to $350,000 through the year 2027.

With the festival just over three weeks away, the proposed funding increase follows a formal request from the event organizers. According to city officials, Palm Springs Pride draws over 200,000 visitors annually, generating significant economic impact and tourism revenue for the region.

The city's public information officer put out a statement on the vote, it said in part-quote, “This is really about making sure the weekend of festivities is safe, enjoyable, and welcoming,” city councilmember Jefferey Bernstein said the funds would be allocated toward public safety resources such as police presence, fire support, and barricades to secure parade routes and event areas.

However, Palm Springs mayor Ron deHarte will be recused from the vote due to his involvement with the Pride organization as he is the CEO. Addressing concerns about potential conflicts of interest Bernstein clarified, “I don't think it's really about power or favoritism. The truth is that if anyone was hosting an event bringing in this many people, I think the city would be equally concerned about the safety of our residents and our visitors.”

In response to questions about the timeline of the funding request, the city clerk confirmed that the agenda item was publicly posted in compliance with state regulations—on Thursday, October 16th at approximately 7:36 PM, within the required 72-hour notice period.