In the midst of #NationalPrideMonth, it’s a monumental year for the Philly Pride Festival. This year marks the 30th anniversary of our city’s annual celebration to increase visibility and diversity in the community. Plus, let’s not to forget to have lots of colorful fun. This three-day party leads up to the ultimate LGBTQ festivities in the region: Pride Day’s Parade and Festival!
Friday, June 8
1. Photo Pop Pride Party
The city’s first interactive photo pop-up exhibit is hosting a special Pride Week kick-off party! This picture-perfect event at Photo Pop Philly is hosted by the fabulous Brittany Lynn. From 6 – 8 p.m., enjoy wine, beads, and boas to add to the insta-worthy party. A dollar from each ticket sold will be donated to the Leeway Foundation. Then, move the festivities across the street to the Toasted Walnut for the official after party.
2. Philly Pride Kick-Off Party
Pride Festival gets the weekend started with a free block party full of outdoor bar pop-ups and endless dance parties. This gayborhood block party starts at 13th and Walnut Streets.
Saturday, June 9
3. Family Festival: Pride Celebration
Bring the entire family to the Please Touch Museum to celebrate LGBTQ families and everything that makes them unique. The program includes a scavenger hunt, drag queen storytelling, and more interactive activities. Entertainment will be by Grammy-nominated band, The Pop Ups.
4. Big Gay Boat Party
The Deck of the Moshulu celebrates Pride Weekend with a night of dancing on the Delaware with music by DJ KRK. Don’t miss the VIP pre-party hosted by Amber Hikes and Brian Sims featuring Stateside Vodka drink specials and food by Toasted Walnut Bar & Kitchen. Plus, there will be go-go dancers to get the party started!
Sunday, June 10
5. Pride Day at Porta*
This celebration will be offering specials during the parade, along with DJ Craig Dash spinning, from 1 – 4 p.m. Porta has partnered with Stateside Vodka to create a few summertime signature drinks for the day. In addition, celebrate with Stateside bottle service with their brand-new “Love is Love” bottles. Brunch specials include a refreshing new cucumber salad, ricotta stuffed zucchini blossoms, and a lox platter.
6. IBA Pride Brunch
When the parade ends, Independence Business Alliance invites festival goers to travel to Havana. Okay, maybe not literally… but head to Cuba Libre for a boozy brunch! Entry is free, appetizers are complimentary, and the cash bar features drinks on special. Space is limited, so register online to reserve your spot.
7. Philly Pride Run
Want to be the first to arrive at the Pride Festival? Register for the Philly Pride Run. Starting at 10:30 a.m., runners will lead the Pride Party to the gates of the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing. Choose from the classic 1.5k fun run or try this year’s brand new 5k.
8. Philadelphia Dyke March
The Dyke March turns twenty this year! Since 1998, the annual protest has brought together the LGBTQ community and their allies to support self-identified dykes. Because even in an already-marginalized community, the voice of it is all too often male-dominated. The kick-off rally begins at 3 pm at Kahn Park on 11th and Pine Streets with free iced coffee from Good Karma Cafe.
9. Pride Day: The Parade
No Philly parade measures up to this one! When it comes to Pride Day Parade attire, nothing is off limits. Costumes, banners, instruments, and positive energy… it’ll all be there! The parade begins at 11:30 a.m. at 13th and Locust Streets.
10. Pride Day: Pride Festival
It’s the event we’ve all been waiting for! This Festival attracts over 25,000 attendees every year. Come see the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing transformed into a colorful world with endless music, food, dancing, and more!
How will you be celebrating Philly Pride Month? Let us know in the comments!
* Porta is a client of Philly PR Girl.
