New York City has been at the center of the gay rights movement since its inception. This is the home of the Stonewall riots in 1969, and the first gay pride parade in 1970 held in honor of those who lost their lives the summer before. Now, pride parades are an annual event celebrated not only around the United States but the whole world.
In recent times, Pride has gone from one day to one whole month as New York City plays host to many different events across the boroughs. June is your chance to celebrate the LGBTQ+ communities of this city, honor the deep-rooted history of queer rights, and remember those who were lost along the way.
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These seven, colorful Pride events are the perfect way to get out into the community, party, have a good time, celebrate this momentous month and maybe learn a little history along the way all culminating with the iconic 53rd annual Pride March.
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Various Locations / Website
Open year-round, make sure to stop by some of the different LGBTQ+ memorials and monuments dotted around the city. From the Gay Liberation Monument in Christopher Park right across the street from the historic Stonewall Inn, to the AIDS Memorial honoring those lost to the epidemic, there are plenty of spots to visit where you can learn something new about LGBTQ+ history.
The Battery / Website
Each year, NYC Pride invites families to gather for a night of wholesome fun for all ages with a public, outdoor movie screening in the park. This movie night is the perfect family celebration, and this year’s feature film is fan-favorite Moana, which will be screened at 5 p.m. at the Battery. This free event is a great way for the younger generations to enjoy and celebrate this important month. The evening also features performances by drag singer Miss Richfield 1981 and Broadway Sings.
6 St Johns Lane / Website
This cinematic experience, in partnership with Tribeca, highlights and celebrates LGBTQ+ films in the industry. This will be the festival debut of the feature film Disclosure, a documentary about transgender representation and depiction on screen in film and TV. Taking place at 7 p.m., this event will also screen two short films to make for an impactful night for film lovers and community members alike.
74 Wythe Ave. / Website
Featuring food and stories from six, black, LGBTQ+ chefs, this culinary experience celebrates both pride month and the recently-nationalized holiday of Juneteenth. The immersive experience takes place at noon and gives participants a chance to mingle with community members all while indulging in delicious food and an open bar. All of this and more makes for a very special cultural experience honoring LGBTQ+ black leaders in the city and beyond.
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Governors Island / Website
Headlined by pop singer and trans icon Kim Petras, this LGBTQ+ music festival is back and better than ever. With a new location at Play Lawn on Governors Island, the two-day festival will also feature performances by NYC rap legend Lil' Kim, Israeli loop artist Netta, British singer-songwriter Raye and more. Don't miss two incredible days of music, fun and pride.
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25th Street and 5th Ave. / Website
Since 1970, the NYC Pride March has been a staple for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies across the city. The 53rd annual march begins at noon on 26th Street and 5th Avenue and weaves down Manhattan through important stops like the Stonewall National Monument and the New York City AIDS Memorial before ending in Chelsea. This year’s Grand Marshals include Ts Madison, Punkie Johnson, Schuyler Bailar, Dominique Morgan and Chase Strangio. Come dressed to impress for what is sure to be an unforgettable afternoon.
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One Astor Plaza / Website
The 28th annual street fair is back and ready to serve up five blocks of fun, food and entertainment. Beginning at 11 a.m., this festival will include vendors from all walks of life, exhibitors and performers in addition to various foods and on-site activities. It’s a can’t miss event located conveniently next to the Pride March. Support the community and find something fun to bring home.
Photography by: Getty
