Update: The annual Pride Parade tally came to 50,000 marchers and hundreds of thousands of attendees spanning Market Street and beyond, per KTVU.

The streets of downtown San Francisco were awash with color and celebration as the annual Pride Parade drew over 50,000 marchers and countless other attendees, affirming the city's historical support for LGBTQ rights. As reported by CBS News San Francisco, the parade, one of the largest in the world, turned Market Street into a vibrant tableau of floats and enthusiastic supporters. Melanie Wood, who represented the Human Rights Campaign in the parade, emphasized its significance in light of the increasing anti-LGBTQ legislation, stating, "I walk because I know this fight is not over and our trans family is under attack across the country."

Source: Getty Images / Miikka Skaffari

A range of attendees, from local residents to international tourists, merged to form a diverse crowd, echoing the sentiment that San Francisco stands as a beacon of safety and acceptance in an otherwise tumultuous political climate. Lukas Schiffel, a visitor from Germany, encapsulated the welcoming spirit, telling CBS News San Francisco, "We didn't know this was happening but we're glad we can see this parade on our last day in San Francisco". Participants showcased a parade and a protest, with various community sectors coming together to make a statement about equality and resistance against oppression.

Source: Getty Images / Miikka Skaffari

A noteworthy element of this year's parade was a group's silent march, which raised awareness for other global issues. Adriana Hernandez, a participant, appreciated the inclusive nature of the protest chants, expressing to the San Francisco Chronicle, "Knowing that people around them stand for causes they believe in made the event feel supportive".

In contrast to the palpable spirit of celebration, the event carries a significant undertone of resistance. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, there has been a worrying rise in anti-LGBTQ legislation, with 524 bills proposed so far in 2024. Melanie Wood's decision to relocate to San Francisco from Florida exemplifies the city's role as a bastion for the queer community. "It's been so healing living out here and I know San Francisco is a safe haven for queer people," Wood said in an interview with CBS News San Francisco.

The weekend festivities also featured performances and various vendors at the Civic Center, allowing the community to support local LGBTQ artists and businesses. Noelle Palmer, an artist vending at the event, shared her excitement with the San Francisco Chronicle, "It’s just wild to me that I got accepted" to the fair.