Happy Pride Month! During the month of June we celebrate the colors of the rainbow, all the beautiful individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. We celebrate their history, struggles, accomplishments and, above all, the fight for love and equality.
Not surprisingly, Philadelphia was recognized as one of the top 5 U.S. cities to celebrate Pride Month. Celebrating the diverse and strong LGBTQ+ community in Philly certainly goes well beyond the month of June. Overall, Philly is home to many neighborhoods, establishments, and historic attractions made magical through the LGBTQ+ community.
Looking to celebrate and/or show your support? Well, we’ve got you covered on things to do in the city. Please keep in mind this list is not exhaustive. Moreover, check out the Philly Gay Calendar for many more events taking place in the city.
1. LGBTQ Hall of Flags Exhibit at The Sofitel
Beginning June 1, 2023 The Sofitel Philadelphia, located in Rittenhouse Square, will kick off Philly Gay Pride Month with a special flag ceremony. A vibrantly beautiful and massive rainbow flag will be raised outside the hotel to welcome guests and passersby.
Additionally, the hotel lobby will be completely transformed into the LGBTQ Hall of Flags. The hall of flags will proudly feature locally made flags celebrating transgender pride, bisexuality, pansexuality, gender fluidity, lesbian pride, and binary pride.
Where: 120 S. 17th Street
2. Philadelphia Pride March & Festival
Presented by Galaei’s Pride 365 Initiative, one of the largest pride marches and festivals in the nation will return to the Greater Philadelphia region June 4, 2023. The festival will begin with a march at 6th and Walnut, followed by the debut of the largest rainbow flag in Philadelphia history. Not to mention, the all-day, all-ages festival in the Gayborhood. This year’s theme will be Love, Light and Liberation! The festival runs from 12:00pm to 7:00pm, and will spread out across the Gayborhood from Walnut to Cypress streets, and Quince to Juniper streets, with other select roads closed around the festival footprint. There will be vendors, food, music, entertainment, and more! Altogether, the day will be fabulous honey!
Where: 6th & Walnut Streets
3. Strike A Pose Lip Sync Smackdown
The party won’t stop until the fat Queen sings! The Strike A Pose Lip Sync Smackdown goes down Jun 3, 2023 at Fat Lady Brewing. Guests can enjoy a celebration of queer culture, a good old fashion lip sync smackdown! Hosted by Stefani Steel and Lucy Moth, six contestants will go head to head in a runway and lip-sync challenge to win over the judges and audience! Tickets are required for this especially outrageous, entertaining event.
Where: 4323 Main Street
4. Philly Pride Run at The Navy Yard
Let your colors soar in this 5K race and 1 mile fun run across the city. Now in its sixth year, the Philly Pride Run returns June 10, 2023 at The Navy Yard. Prizes will be awarded to the top three female, male, non-binary, and wheelchair competitors. Furthermore, all proceeds will go to support The William Way LGBT Community Center.
Where: 4701 Intrepid Avenue
5. Science After Hours: Summer Ball at The Franklin Institute
Dress to impress and dance the night away at this age 21 and older event. This year’s Science After Hours: Summer Ball takes place June 16, 2023 at The Franklin Institute. The theme for this year’s summer ball is ‘Self Reflect(ive)’ and celebrates LGBTQ Pride Month especially mental health and self-love. Moreover, guests are encouraged to wear their shiniest ensemble or bedazzle in a sequined skirt. Enjoy drag performances, cocktails, food, and a live DJ. Indeed, this will be a night to remember! Tickets can be purchased by visiting their website.
Where: 222 N. 20th Street
6. Pride Bar Crawl Philly
Paint the town rainbow by joining the official Pride Bar Crawl Philly on June, 17, 2023. Over 10+ LGBTQ+ friendly bars will be participating in this colorful and fun event. Crawl starts at 3pm with a check-in at the famous Woody’s Bar. Enjoy drinks, friendship, and an excitedly good time. Tickets are required for this event.
Where: 202 S. 13th Street
7. Pride Showcase Drag Brunch
A little hop and skip over the bridge and you’ll find Vera Cherry Hill. June 18, 2023 Vera will be hosting a Pride Showcase Drag Brunch. Enjoy not only delicious food and drinks, but also, amazing performances, stunning queens, games, and music. Seating is first come, first served and tickets are required.
Where: 2310 Marlton Pike W. Cherry Hill, NJ
8. Philadelphia Phillies Pride Night at Citizens Bank Park
Watch the Fightin’ Phils take on the rival New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park June 23, 2023. A special Pride Night celebration will take place during the game. Also, the first 2,000 fans who purchase a special Pride Night-themed ticket will receive a Phillies Pride bucket hat. How’s that for a homerun!
Where: 1 Citizens Bank Way
9. Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Top Secret Queer Comedy Show at Punch Line Philly
June 30, 2023 come to Punch Line Philly for a night of laughter hosted by comedian Betty Smithsonian. Hear jokes from the city’s top up-and-coming LGBTQ comics. The event is for ages 21+ and is sure to be a gay time! You can learn more by visiting their website.
Where: 33 E. Laurel Street
10. Philly Gayborhood and LGBTQ History Tours
Brought to you by Beyond The Bell Tours, Philly Gayborhood and LGBTQ History tours are offered every Friday through Monday at 3pm. Discover the controversies, paradoxes, and hidden histories of the only formalized Gayborhood in the country. Certainly, the tea is spilling and hot honey, so this is one tour you won’t want to miss!
Where: Various tour stop locations