What You Need to Know for Pride This Weekend: Expect Increased Security

If you attend any San Francisco Pride events this weekend, expect to see more police officers than in past years.

That's just one change city officials unveiled this week for an event whose parade and various parties are expected to attract around 1 million people.

Security plans have been in the works for months, but following the June 12 massacre at Orlando's Pulse nightclub, officials from various city agencies met to discuss what additional steps might be necessary.

The new security measures announced Monday will include checkpoints with metal detectors at every entrance to the official Pride festival at the Civic Center. Bags will be subject to search and no bags larger than 18 by 18 inches will be allowed.

There will be no lockers to check large bags, and attendees are being strongly encouraged not to bring any bags if possible.

"We ask that people plan accordingly, and please be patient if there is a wait to get in," said George Ridgely, SF Pride executive director. "We expect this could create delays."

SFPD Deputy Chief Mike Redmond also noted there will be a large number of officers around entertainment venues, along the parade route and throughout the city this whole week. Initially, because of expected increased attendance, Redmond said the department had planned on having 15 to 20 percent more officers on the streets than in previous years, but in light of the Orlando shooting it will actually be 25 to 30 percent more officers.

"You'll see a very high visible presence of police officers," he said. Some of the officers will also be in plain clothes.

Redmond noted the department will also be coordinating with federal agencies.

In addition to the new security measures, there are a number of rules that have long been in place.

While alcohol will be for sale inside the Civic Center event area, no outside alcohol will be permitted. There are also no coolers, weapons, drones, shopping carts or smoking allowed inside the festival area. Where there are not official events and no street closures, such as in the Castro, open container laws will still be in effect.

For a full list of security measures, check the San Francisco Pride website.

The official Pride Festival, with performers on multiple stages, will take place around the Civic Center from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The parade will start at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday at Market and Beale streets and will continue up Market to the Civic Center. This year's theme is racial and economic justice. Check the website for any updates.

SF Pride's Ridgely said the organizing committee is continuing with a "heavy heart" in the wake of Orlando, but large crowds are expected in part as a show of support for shooting victims and for the wider LGBT community.

"It's really tempting to curl up into a ball and retreat when this kind of tragedy happens, but we have to do the opposite. We have to have the most celebratory and joyous Pride," said San Francisco Supervisor Scott Wiener.