Pride festivals around Pennsylvania bring together those who identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies for a celebration of diversity and the strength it brings to our commonwealth. Want to find a Pride festival or parade near you? Check out this roundup of events happening in every corner of PA.
You’ll notice that many are in June. Ever wonder why? It’s the month when one of the most significant turning points in the history of the LGBTQIA+ rights movement happened: the Stonewall Riots. You can read more here but briefly, the riots began in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. Known as a gay bar, it was regularly raided by police because of its clientele. Keep in mind that at that time, it was illegal to engage in any “gay behavior,” including holding hands. When the June 28 raid happened, patrons had reached their breaking point and fought back against the arrests. The unrest continued for five days and served to galvanize activists. They formed two important organizations: the Gay Liberation Front, now knowns as the Human Rights Campaign and Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. That organization is now called PFLAG.
The first gay pride parade was held on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York City. Pride events are now held all over the world. Here are events right here in Pennsylvania:
- Philadelphia Gay Pride - Philadelphia, May 31- June 2
- Pittsburgh Pride - Pittsburgh, May 31 – June 2; Parade June 1
- Gettysburg Pride Fest - Gettysburg, June 1
- SUN PrideFest - Lewisburg, June 1
- Lancaster Pride Fest - Lancaster, June 15
- Washington Pennsylvania Gay Pride - Washington, June 15
- Pride on the Bay - Erie, June 29; Parade, June 30
- Berks Pride Fest - Reading, July 21
- Pride Festival of Central PA - Harrisburg, July 27
If you’re planning on going to a Pride event to show your support of the LGBTQIA+ community, use a credit card that pays you back for your gas, lodging, food and drinks, and merch. With the Founder’s Rewards Card, you earn 2%* or 1.5% cash rewards.
*You can earn 1.5% cash rewards on purchases. You can earn 2% cash rewards on purchases if you maintain a PSECU checking account and qualifying monthly direct deposit(s) of at least $500. Some exclusions may apply. See the Visa® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.