INDIANAPOLIS — This time every year, downtown Indianapolis comes alive to celebrate pride with laughter, dancing and lots of colors. Organizers say the Indy Pride parade and festival are celebrations of unity, inclusivity and equality.
"To be able to bring a space of joy and happiness, you see the colors and outfits and artists and creating a space for our community in Indianapolis is very special to us," said Indy Pride Board of Directors Vice President Jose Castillo Jimenez.
Last year around 35,000 people attended the Indy Pride Festival and organizers are expecting more this year. To make sure that the events are safe and fun, organizers say planning is key and they work with agencies like IMPD to make it happen.
"Our officers will be out patrolling walking in cars, bikes, and motorcycles. They'll be patrolling the Monon trail" said IMPD PIO William Young.
Visitors should expect to see extra officers downtown to help patrol and make sure surrounding areas are also covered. But they also want the guest to take their own safety personally.
"We want to make sure our number one goal is to make sure everyone is safe and having a good time. Be aware of your surroundings and walk in groups. Carry a cell phone with you. Obey the crosswalks," said Young.
With so many people expected to be downtown IMPD said drivers should expect delays.
"We ask that you leave early and plan ahead and do all the things that we want you to do so that you can arrive safely and leave safely too," said Young.
Indy Pride also asked visitors to obey the festival rules.
Rules which include a clear bag policy, no smoke or vaping, and no coolers or pets.
Organizers said they've worked hard to create safety plans for any situation.
"It's kind of a hard conversation to have but it's the reality of the world we are living in right now. We want to make sure we are prepared to act appropriately and with the city's help we are making sure this park is safe," said Jimenez.
Because no matter what your role, everyone has the same goal.
"We are just excited to see people coming out to enjoy the city. Our main goal is to make sure everyone is safe and having a good time."
For more information about what you can and cannot bring to the Indy Pride Festival, click here.