Six Lesser-Known Pride Celebrations to Consider in June
While Pride celebrations happen throughout the calendar year, a large swath of them traditionally fall during June (Pride month). Here are details on six parades and festivals to consider around the United States that may not be on queer travelers’ radars—yet.
**Columbus, Ohio: June 14-15**
This Midwestern Capitol city, which claims to show its Pride 365 days per year, truly does it up in June. With more than 700,000 attendees each year, Columbus Pride is one of the largest in the Midwest. Hometown idol (and RuPaul’s Drag Race star) Nina West often makes an appearance or two—and through their Columbus-based Nina West Foundation, raises funds for a diverse range of LGBTQ and progressive causes. More than 100 LGBTQ-owned **businesses** and **organizations** that are located here add to the reasons to visit this June.
**Providence, R.I.: June 15**
The Rhode Island PrideFest & Illuminated Night Parade is one of the country’s more unique venues, and among the state’s biggest festival each year. At noon in the heart of downtown, the gates will open at the new Providence Innovation District Park and attendees can visit with more than 250 nonprofit organizations, businesses, and food vendors. More than 100,000 attendees are expected. The main stage will feature entertainment with a variety of local, regional, and national acts. At night, one of the highlights is the Illuminated Night Parade, where all the colors of the rainbow come alive, as glowing floats and marchers march through the city streets.
**Kansas City: June 7-9**
With more than 50 million people within a day’s drive, KC PrideFest is accessible to many queer revelers in the center of the country. As part of an entire month of events, Kansas City PRIDE Community Alliance will host this three-day event at Theis Park. Visitors can expect live entertainment, vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. Saturday morning, nearby Westport neighborhood hosts the KC Pride Parade, with colorful floats, performers, and community groups.
**Asbury Park, N.J.: June 2**
The 32nd annual Jersey Pride festival in this iconic Jersey Shore town may look like a one-day celebration, but the entire summer here comes alive with festivals, concerts, and gorgeous beach days. Outdoor Pride activities are, of course, the most popular, including a parade, outdoor concert, and festival. But local businesses are also proudly hosting special events leading up to and following the big day. Come for the performance by drag superstar Trixie Mattel, who is hosting The Solid Pink Disco Pride Kickoff Party with DJ Mateo Segade on May 30.
**Salt Lake City: June 1-2**
The Utah Pride Festival expects more than 75,000 attendees for this jubilant celebration of diversity and equality that exemplifies Salt Lake City’s inclusive spirit. The city, which is a regional draw for queer people boasts more than 400 LGBTQ+-owned establishments, from cafes to nightlife spots. The weekend features a Pride March and Rally at the State Capitol building, two days of festival fun at Washington Square Park, and the Pride Parade at 10 a.m. on Sunday, weaving through downtown.
**San Luis Obispo, Calif.: May 31-June 2**
Central Coast Pride takes place at various locations around the city. Located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the central coast. SLO has been hosting the region’s largest LGBTQ celebration since 1997. This year’s Pride theme is “We’re Still Standing.” Events for the weekend include the Rise Up! Drag and Burlesque Show, with drag queens, burlesque, song, and dance; Pride in the Park; Pride in the Plaza; and Drag Yo’ Self Out of Bed, a drag brunch taking place at the Madonna Inn.
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