This article was created in partnership with Heritage of Pride, the nonprofit organization behind NYC Pride
There’s a reason New York City is one of the greatest places for queer expression in the world. Since erecting skyscrapers for girls, gays, and theys to gawk at, the Big Apple has long been a welcoming hub for the ever-expanding LGBTQ+ community.
One organization brings Pride to the rainbow-clad city streets, creating inclusive events that everyone can enjoy leading up to the big March on June 28th. Heritage of Pride is the hardworking group responsible for much of the joy we experience in the city during this season.
Heritage of Pride hosts a diverse array of activities that inspire, educate, commemorate, and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Here are some of the exciting events coming up this summer as Pride kicks off:
Bar Crawls Across NYC – March 28th, May 9th, June 6th
Gather your group of friends and set off on a “Road to Pride” Bar Crawl Series. The next excursion is May 9th, beginning at 2 P.M. Visits on the disco-themed May 9th trek include the best gay spots in Williamsburg: Oberon, Exley, and Animal. Queer bars are a sanctuary for fun and free expression. Take the opportunity to drink a bit and let loose on the dance floor, while also learning more about the queer businesses in your area. Tickets for each crawl are $15, or you can purchase a “Road to Pride Passport” ticket, which includes entry and raffle tickets for all three crawls, for $35.
It’s Giving Brunch: NYC Pride Drag Brunch Fundraiser – June 20th
Who doesn’t love a fabulous fundraiser and delicious brunch outing? It takes many donations to make every Pride event possible. NYC Pride’s marquee fundraiser, “It’s Giving Brunch,” returns for another banquet focused on drag excellence and giving back. There are photo opportunities with participating queens, and tables of up to 10 are available for purchase. The event has two seatings, 11–1 and 2–4, so everyone has a chance to attend. A silent auction and raffle prizes will be included, with 100% of proceeds directly supporting NYC Pride’s work creating safe spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community. Get your tickets now for the June 20th extravaganza.
New York Mets Pride Night – June 26th
For sports fans looking to combine their love of baseball with the importance of queer acceptance, the New York Mets are hosting Pride Night on June 26th. Head to Citi Field to enjoy themed cocktails, exclusive Mets Pride merchandise, in-game entertainment, and DJs. Guests will receive a Mets Pride sleeveless jersey presented by Delta Air Lines. With each ticket purchased, $10 will be donated to support NYC Pride initiatives. Take me out to the ballgame on Friday, June 26th, at 7:10 pm.
Youth Pride – June 27th
Children are our future! Youth Pride is NYC’s leading event for LGBTQIA+ youth. The South Street Seaport/Pier 16 gathering invites teens and allies to celebrate this year’s theme, “For All Of Us.” The focus is to empower and educate queer youth with a variety of affirming resources and activities. Expect a carnival-style celebration on June 27th. Attendees can hear from local activists, enjoy beauty tutorials like wig styling, braiding, and drag makeup lessons, and much more. DJ Nikki Jax will provide a dance floor open to all ages and identities.
Annual Pride March – June 28th
Finally, the day we’ve all been waiting for has arrived. Pull up as your most authentic, gayest self for this momentous occasion. Don your rainbow attire, dab some glitter on those cheeks, and get ready to experience Pride the way only New Yorkers know how: loudly and proudly. Join the iconic March starting at 26th Street and 5th Avenue to make your way down to 15th Street and 7th Avenue. This is your chance to join the largest LGBTQIA+ civil rights demonstration in the world. See how we’ve grown since the historic 1969 Stonewall Riots and let the world know we aren’t going anywhere. March in defiant advocacy and share solidarity with your fellow community members. Most importantly, celebrate who you are, surrounded by people who just get it.
