Inside This Year’s Rhode Island Pride Celebration

Courtesy of RI Pride

Rhode Island’s pride celebration has come a long way since 1976, when approximately seventy-five LBGTQ+ trailblazers sued for the right to march through downtown Providence. Now, more than 125,000 people descend on the Creative Capital every June to take part in what U.S. News & World Report calls one of the country’s top Pride festivals.  

This year’s Pride Celebration and Illuminated Night Parade — the forty-ninth annual — takes place June 21 at 195 District Park in Providence. Gates open at 11:30 a.m., with the parade kicking off at 8 p.m. 

Courtesy of RI Pride

This year’s theme, Unapologetically Proud, perfectly describes the state’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community and the annual fete.

Courtesy of RI Pride

“There’s something magical about coming to a city like Providence and being able to feel safe, feel accessible and be treated with hospitality and warmth,” says Rhode Island Pride President Rodney Davis. “People can come and be their authentic selves — that’s the secret sauce of Pride.” 

As in years past, there will be local and national headliners (just announced: “The Voice” Season 25 winner Ashon Havon; “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 17 finalist Lydia B. Kollins; and American Idol season 16 finalist Ada Vox) on the main stage, along with a party atmosphere packed with food trucks, more than 250 businesses, artisans and organizations, a kids’ area and nonalcoholic mocktails — as well as more potent potables — available in the beer, wine and spirits tent.

And, of course, what’s Rhode Island Pride without its signature illuminated parade? The event starts at 8 p.m. and winds through Dorrance, Washington and Empire streets before ending at the reviewing stand under the Providence Performing Arts Center’s glistening marquee. prideri.org/pridefest

Courtesy of RI Pride