Washington, D.C. was alive with color, energy, and celebration last Saturday as thousands gathered for the annual Pride Parade. Despite the warm temperatures and a few moments of cloud cover, the day was filled with joy, creativity, and powerful expressions of identity and community.

As the parade wound its way through the city streets, cheers erupted from sidewalks packed with people waving rainbow flags, dancing, and showing their support for LGBTQ+ rights. Street festivals and live concerts added to the atmosphere, turning the entire city into a patchwork of celebration and solidarity.

Among the many highlights of the day was local artist Lashell, who marched proudly in the parade showcasing her artwork. Her standout piece, The Fountain, drew a steady stream of admirers. The vibrant and emotionally resonant work seemed to mirror the spirit of the day—hopeful, expressive, and unapologetically bold. Many parade-goers stopped to take photos of Lashell and her art, turning her into something of a local star amid the festivities.

Lashell’s work didn’t just stand out—it fit in. The Fountain blended seamlessly with the color and creativity of the crowd, a moving tribute to the ways art and activism intersect. It was a reminder that Pride isn’t just about celebration—it’s about storytelling, visibility, and the power of creative voices to inspire change.

As music pulsed from every corner and the sun peeked through the clouds, the day closed with a sense of unity and resilience. The 2025 D.C. Pride Parade was more than an event—it was a beautiful, living expression of love and identity, with artists like Lashell helping to paint the city with purpose.