by Lex Charles
Clear your schedule and pack your pride gear —Pride Under the Pines returns on Saturday, October 4 and this year’s celebration is bigger, bolder, and more beautiful than ever.
Nestled in the heart of Idyllwild, surrounded by towering pines and fresh mountain air, Pride Under the Pines is taking over Idyllwild Town Hall (25925 Cedar St.) from 12 to 7 p.m. with a jam-packed day of music, drag, food, fun and unapologetic LGBTQ+ joy.
Meet Your Headliner: The Legendary Janice Robinson
This year’s mainstage is set to sparkle with the unstoppable energy of Janice Robinson — the powerhouse singer, songwriter, and global dance diva behind the iconic 1990s hit Dreamer. From Livin’ Joy’s dance-floor anthems to her critically acclaimed solo album The Color Within Me, Janice has spent decades electrifying audiences around the world.
“To celebrate Love, Unity, and Music in such a beautiful place is pure magic, and I cannot wait to share that joy with everyone,” she shares. Longtime fans will be thrilled to see her back on stage, and newcomers are about to discover why she’s a true legend. Expect a performance that will have you singing, swaying, and dancing under the pines.
Your Host with the Most: Alexander Rodriguez
Bringing the laughs and keeping the energy high is Alexander Rodriguez, this year’s official Pride Under the Pines host. Known for his quick wit, warm personality, and award-winning podcast On the Rocks, Alexander will keep the celebration flowing with clever commentary, interviews, and stage-side antics. You’ll also catch him hanging out in the VIP Lounge, so grab that VIP ticket if you want to share a toast with him.
A Day Packed with Pride
Pride Under the Pines is more than a festival — it’s a full-day celebration of love, resiliency and community. Expect:
- Live Music & Dance Beats — including a full DJ set from KGAY 106.5’s DJ Galaxy.
- Drag & Superstar Performances — featuring Jo Lopez, Aria S. Williams, Violetta, and more dazzling queens from Boozehounds Tea N’ Shade.
- Family-Friendly Fun — delicious food vendors, community booths, and plenty of space to connect with friends old and new.
The Mission: Pride with Purpose
Founded in 2021 by Palm Springs entrepreneurs Jeremy Taylor and Niels Kosman, Pride Under the Pines originated as a grassroots event designed to unite the LGBTQ+ community in a safe and joyful space. Today, it’s one of Idyllwild’s most beloved annual events, welcoming thousands of guests each year.
Co-founder Niels Kosman emphasizes the importance of the festival’s mission, sharing that “during these times, it is MOST important to show up for each other and let the world know we are here to stay and our rights matter! Stand proud. Dance. Celebrate. And defend our rights, liberties, and beliefs at Pride Under The Pines.”
Every ticket sold directly supports their 100% nonprofit mission to maintain LGBTQ+ visibility in Idyllwild and surrounding mountain communities.
Go VIP for the Ultimate Experience
Want to elevate your Pride day? Snag a VIP ticket and gain access to the festival’s fabulous VIP Lounge, featuring:
- Hosted Open Bar with handcrafted vodka sodas from Local Motion and craft beer from Joshua Tree Brewing Company
- Meet & Greets with performers and headliners
- The best views of the stage and the most Instagram-worthy vibes in the venue
Make It a Weekend Getaway
Why stop at just one day of Pride? Make it a mountain escape by booking a stay at The Pine Tree Hotel, the event’s Preferred Lodging Partner. These boutique luxury cabins are just minutes from the festival and feature a heated pool, sauna, and even a pickleball court. Bonus: festivalgoers get 25% off reservations with promo code PRIDE25.
Show Up. Stand Proud. Dance Together.
This isn’t just another Pride party; it’s a call to action. Pride Under the Pines reminds us all to live unapologetically, to embrace every part of who we are, and to continue building joyful, inclusive spaces for future generations.
So gather your crew, plan your outfits, and get ready to paint the mountains with rainbows. Pride Under the Pines 2025 is calling. And trust us, you don’t want to miss this.
Get your tickets now at www.prideunderthepines.com and join the movement.