From now until Fri., June 30, you’re going to see a lot more Roy G. Biv than usual — it’s officially Pride Month in the Emerald City.
Here’s what’s going on.
A little history
While the parties and parades are fun, they’re the result of years of struggle and a continuing fight for human rights.
Seattle’s first Pride parade happened in June 1974 — four years after the Stonewall Riots. At the time, only 50 people participated. Now, more than 400,000 spectators line the streets to watch the big event — and this year marks its 50th anniversary.
Don’t miss out
- PrideFest | Sat., June 29-Sun., June 30 | 12-8 p.m. | Capitol Hill and Seattle Center | This giant, two-day party features beer gardens, performers, kids activities, and vendors. The first day takes over Capitol Hill before migrating down to Seattle Center for its last day of festivities.
- Seattle Pride Parade | Sun., June 30 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Westlake Park + downtown | Come see Washington’s largest parade and celebrate with 250+ local and national community groups, nonprofits, and companies.
How to get involved
Pride is a prime time to give back, too. Celebrate by volunteering or giving donations to one of these local orgs.
- Ingersoll Gender Center | This org by and for folks who are transgender offers support groups, job boards, and healthcare provider guidance.
- Lambert House | By facilitating support groups, game nights, and providing safe spaces for kids to be themselves, this nonprofit hopes to foster a community for LGBTQ+ youth.
- PFLAG Seattle | As one of the national nonprofit’s several chapters throughout the US, this organization works to educate friends and families of LGBTQ+ youth and create more supportive home environments.
- Seattle’s LGBTQ+ Center (formerly Gay City) | This org aims to create a holistic set of resources for the LGBTQ+ community with job training, STI/HIV testing, arts programs, and more.
