Now that we’re in 2020, I’m sure you’re curious about fun things to do this year! Depending on what you’re interested in, there is something for everyone. In particular, if you are LGBTQ or an ally to the community, there is an endless amount of fun events and festivals to attend this year! There are large-scale, huge events like NYC Pride and DragCon, or smaller ones like HRC Galas. Some events are free, while others require a purchased ticket.
Are you looking for something fun to do in 2020? Want to support your fellow LGBTQ friends and family members or the greater community? Check out these five LGBTQ pride events and festivals to attend this year, you won’t regret it!
Pride Events – World Pride NYC
NYC Pride is always one of the biggest pride events of the year. People from all over the country come to support their LGBTQ brothers and sisters. This year, however, the parade will perhaps be the largest LGBTQ celebration in history due to the fact that 2020 marks 50 years since the first NYC Pride March in 1970.
Last year was the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. If you are unfamiliar, the Stonewall Riots were a series of protests by people of the LGBTQ community against police raids of the Stonewall Inn, which was a popular bar amongst the community at the time. The Stonewall Riots fought against discrimination, sparked the fight for LGBTQ rights in America, and kickstarted the first march in 1970.
This year’s NYC Pride is going to be an unforgettable one, as there will be plenty of activities, food, history, and fun! Did I mention it’s free? For more information, check out World Pride NYC
Pride Events – Philadelphia Pride
As a Philly girl, I have to include the Philadelphia Pride Parade! Hand-in-Hand with NYC Pride but not nearly as big, the Philadelphia Pride parade has so much to offer. With close to 25,000 participators, Philly Pride has live music, food, drinks, free health screenings and tons of community groups and vendors. While it is no cost to attend the parade, if you are interested you can enjoy the festival for $15! Enjoy the company of friends or spark a friendship with a stranger! Regardless, Philly Pride is one event you don’t want to miss out on this year, especially if you’re in the Greater Philadelphia area! For more information on dates/times, check out http://www.phillygaypride.org/events/philly-pride-parade-and-festival/
Pride Events – HRC Greater Philadelphia Gala
HRC or the Human Rights Campaign has multiple events throughout the year to support the LGBTQ community in many aspects. One of their events is a Gala, held in many places like New York City and Philadelphia. Once again, as a Philly girl, I have to stay true and represent my city!
The HRC Gala in Philadelphia is a great event that brings together hundreds and even close to a thousand people in the Greater Philadelphia area to work towards LGBTQ equality. In describing the event, the HRC site writes, “Our red carpet and cocktail reception invites guests to mingle as they mix through our exciting Silent Auction. The black-tie dinner dotes live entertainment and inspiring speakers, all of whom are making a difference for the LGBTQ community. The dinner is followed by an After Party!”
Tickets for the event range between $100-225! Make sure you get your suit and tie or ball gown and get your tickets today! For more information, go to https://www.hrc.org/events/greater-philadelphia-gala
DragCon
Hey Kitty Girl! Do you love RuPaul’s Drag Race? If you do, then DragCon is the event that you want to go to this year! There are so many fun activities and events that take place during DragCon, such as meeting your favorite drag queens, seeing performances from special quests, participating in contests, engaging in panels, and simply just hanging out and chilling with friends!
DragCon is featured in two locations, the UK or Los Angeles, so you can get your drag on! Individual tickets for one day are $40, $70 for the weekend, and $300 for the VIP experience, so there’s something for everyone! Visit https://try.rupaulsdragcon.com/ for more details!
Gay Days at Disney
Who doesn’t love Disney World? Well, if you love both Disney World and the LGBTQ community, Gay Days at Disney is the perfect event for you! Featured in Orlando, FL, Gay Days at Disney is a 6-day event that attracts nearly 180,000 people! Throughout Gay Days, there is plenty of fun, with pool parties, special events, theme park attractions, parades, and more! Tickets start at $25 for events, making it affordable for anyone! For more information, check out https://www.gaydays.com/
2020 is going to be a fantastic year full of fun and exciting new trips and adventures. If you’re looking to go and experience something new and perhaps something outside of your comfort zone, consider attending one of these events! If you can’t, don’t worry, there are plenty of LGBTQ events and festivals throughout the year. Have fun!