Philadelphia Pride: 7 events you won’t want to miss at this year’s celebration

Philly Pride takes place June 16 to 18, and this year features a myriad activities that bring the community together in full force. An annual event since the 1980s, the mission of Philly Pride is to celebrate, advocate, and raise awareness about LGBT issues. No matter how you identify, you’re welcome at Pride to spread the love and embrace tolerance. 

The Philadelphia Film Society celebrates Pride during the month of June with 2 free movie screenings that honor the best of LGBTQ cinema. “Blue is the Warmest Color,” a coming-of-age story capturing the essence of first love, will be shown on June 13, and “Mysterious Skin,” a hopeful drama about childhood trauma, will screen on June 27. Registration is required, and donations are welcome.

When: June 13 and June 27, 7PM

Where: PFS Roxy Theater, 2023 Sansom St., Philadelphia, PA 19103

Voyeur Nightclub is hosting Valentina from RuPaul’s Drag Race on June 17. This star-studded show features the fiercest drag queens in Philly, including ZsaZsa St. James and Draya Dream. With VIP registration, you can get in the door at 7PM to find a cozy spot and get a jump on the party. After the show, hit the dance floor and boogie the night away to house music, EDM, and Top-40 tunes.

When: June 17, 8:30PM

Where: Voyeur Nightclub, 1221 Saint James Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

To celebrate Philly Pride, iCandy is hosting Philly’s own hometown hero, William Belli, who will be headlining the #LastCallForPride Party. Belli’s recurring role as Cherry Peck on Nip/Tuck and a stint on the fourth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race have made him a beloved fixture of the local LGBT community, and the event is hosted by other esteemed scenesters Ariel Versace and Brittany Lynn. The show is free, but you’ll want to arrive early, since space is limited.

When: June 18, 11:59PM

Where: iCandy, 254 S 12th St., Philadelphia, PA 19107

The Gayborhood is the place to be on Friday, June 16, for the Philly Pride Kick-Off Block Party. Start your Pride weekend off right and enjoy food, refreshments, amusements, and entertainment outside in the fresh air. The event is free and it’s your last opportunity to get discounted festival tickets, which saves you $5 on the price of a Pride Parade and Festival wristband.

When: June 16, 6PM to 11PM

Where: Locust and 12th Street

The Philly Pride Parade and Festival is the premier event of Pride Day. The parade starts in the heart of the Gayborhood and meanders through City Center and the historic district. The judging occurs at Independence Mall, and the parade ends around 1PM at Great Plaza of Penn’s Landing, where the festival will be in full swing. The parade and festival wristbands are $15 and gets you access to 6 full hours of entertainment, 150 vendors, and all manner of fun and debauchery.

When: June 18, 11:30AM

Where: 13th and Locust to Penn’s Landing

Billed as a protest and not a parade, the annual Philadelphia Dyke March on June 10 is an annual rally that celebrates self-identified dykes and their allies. The rally kicks off at Kahn Park and raises awareness of issues facing women in the LGBT community. All genders are welcome at this high-energy party, which features speakers, performers, and lots of folks doing their own thing. 

When: June 10, 3PM to 7PM

Where: Kahn Park, 1119 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19107

Philly Pride’s annual William Way Homecoming features a brunch buffet and live entertainment, and it’s a great way to support the William Way LGBT Community Center. A silent auction includes donors like Tattooed Mom, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Bridge Music, among many others. Bloody Marys and Mimosas will flow freely at this lively celebration, a festive way to kick off Pride weekend.

When: June 17, 11AM to 2:30PM 

Where: William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19107

Philly Pride is a high-energy, joyful celebration of all things LGBTQ, and participating is a great way to embrace and support the community while having loads of fun. This year, make your plans ahead of time to get the most out of Pride.