Pride is about loving yourself for who you are. There is nothing more uplifting than celebrating yourself with others who are also living their truth. While these times can be uncertain, there is one thing you can be sure of – the St. Louis community is an inclusive one, and there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate your true self in the Gateway City during Pride Month. Here are some things to do for St. Louis Pride Month 2023 that are educational, inspirational, and fun!
Pride Month at the Missouri History Museum
History makes sure that we don’t repeat the same mistakes as a society. Pride Month is celebrated to recognize the LGBTQIA+ community’s ongoing struggle for equal rights.
This month-long celebration originated from the Stonewall riots that transpired in New York City back in June 1969. The riots were an act of resistance after police continued to target and raid gay establishments, including the Stonewall Inn. The Stonewall riots sparked a national movement for LGBTQIA+ rights that continues to this day.
History is preserved by sharing our stories. The Missouri History Museum does a splendid job doing this year-round, including during Pride Month.
Come for weekly events, discussions, and other cultural experiences, including:
- June 8 – Pride Keynote: Queer Writes
- June 10 – Queer and Allied Writes: Finding Essential Moments in Your Story at the Library & Research Center
- June 10, 22 & 25 – See STL Walking Tours: Gay Liberation in the Gateway City
- June 24 – PrideFest Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony at Soldier’s Memorial
- June 24 & 25 – Coming Out Under Fire Documentary Screening at Solider’s Memorial –
Pride Community Beach Party Shabbat
Nothing brings the entire community together like a pool party. Join a Tel Aviv-style beach-themed Pride celebration at the SFC Outdoor Pool on June 23, from 5:30pm – 7:30pm!
This family-friendly event is free for all who identify as LGBQIA+ members, along with their friends, family members, and allies. There will be plenty of activities going on, including the photo booth, games, music, and the ever-popular SFC Outdoor Pool slide!
Bring your own towel. There will be plenty of yummy snacks for concession.
Celebrate yourself freely in an inclusive environment, catch some rays, and hang out by the pool. Please consider pre-registering for the Pride Community Beach Party Shabbat!
“Made with Pride” City Foundry STL
Support the LGBTQIA+ small businesses, artists, nonprofits, and other vendors during the second annual “Made with Pride” pop-up market at City Foundry STL.
This four-day event will feature over 70 local vendors including queer artists, fashion designers, horticulturists, jewelers, and more. There’s something for everyone. Shop around for a loved one (or for yourself), all while supporting a member of your community.
“Made with Pride” will be open to the public during these hours:
- June 21 – 3:00pm – 8:00pm
- June 22 – 3:00pm – 8:00pm
- June 23 – 3:00pm – 8:00pm
- June 24 – 12:00pm – 6:00pm
City Nights Drag Show
Drag shows are never a drag, especially during the annual Pride Drag Show at City Museum. This annual rooftop extravaganza features some of the hottest performers in the Missouri area.
The star-studded bill features:
- Calexus Carrington-Steele
- Tassandra Crush
- Robyn Hearts
- Avery C. Lauren
- Akasha Royale
Please note this event is for patrons that are 21 years of age or older. Tickets are $30. While the bar is cashless, the performers do accept cash tips. So, be sure to get those singles ready and up in the air!
PrideFest
Pride in St. Louis commences with PrideFest each year. PrideFest started in 1980, making it one of the longest-running Pride events in the United States. The festival has grown over the years, transforming from a small gathering to an expansive celebration that showcases the vibrant and diverse St. Louis LGBTQIA+ community through various events, performances, and parades.
This year’s event is the biggest to date. Kickoff begins on Saturday, June 24, from 11:00am – 7:00pm in Downtown St. Louis. Betty Who and Kat Graham will headline what will surely be a celebration that you will be proud to attend.
The Grand Parade begins at 12:00pm on Sunday, June 25. Watch in awe as we witness a colorful display of love, starting at 8th and Market and concluding at 18th and Market.
It’s going to be a fun time. In fact, the Jewish Community Center will be a part of the parade. So, be sure to come on down and say “hi!”
The festivities don’t end with the parade, as Cece Peinston and Idina Menzel take the stage on Sunday night. It’s going to be a magical time that you don’t want to miss. We hope to see you there!