As the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone is looking to find ways to celebrate life with the people they love. Each year Pride parades and events are an integral part of the LGBTQ experience. In 2021, some of these will once again be going virtual, while others have stated that there will be live Pride events, but that the dates are still unknown. Luckily, there are a number of cities that are going to attempt in-person Pride celebrations. Before you make your travel plans, be sure to check with the local Pride websites for up-to-date information. Here’s a look at 10 Pride events from around the world that will be happening this summer.
AMSTERDAM PRIDE
The Dutch city of Amsterdam is hoping that they’ll be able to do in-person Pride events. According to their website, they’re holding off on Pride until August because more people will be vaccinated then, so there’s a greater chance they can celebrate as similar to normal as possible. Amsterdam has also announced that they plan to hold their annual Canal Parade. Whereas most cities hold their Pride parades down city streets, Amsterdam takes to its famous canals, where colorful float boats casually make their way from the Scheepvaart museum, through the City Center, and out towards the Westerdok. It’s certainly one of the most unique Pride experiences in the world. The city is also hoping to be able to put on select parties and events as well, but they state that they’ll need to wait until further into the summer before they can announce how they might look. It’s very likely that the number of vaccinations in the Netherlands will directly correlate to how big Amsterdam Pride will be. AmsterdamGayPride.nl
Amsterdam Pride
Photo: D.
KEY WEST, FLORIDA
At the start of June, Key West is offering up one of the biggest Pride events of the entire year. For those looking to partake in the decadence of the season, Key West delivers with the annual kick-off party at the famous Island House, which will be dishing out free Stoli cocktails, as well as naked pool parties throughout the week, and the popular Girls Just Wanna Have Fun party with DJ Mira. For those looking for more communitycentered events, the week will also be loaded with drag brunches, tea dances, and LGBTQ-inclusive religious services. There’s even going to be a traditional Hawaiian luau, and everyone is encouraged to dress up in their Hawaiian best! And of course, the annual parade and street festival will be taking place. Be sure to keep up-to-date with announcements from Key West Pride. Depending on how the vaccination rollout goes, there might be capacity restrictions, so it’s important to book your tickets soon. GayKeyWestFL.com
Key West Pride
Photo: Chuck Wagner
MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM
At the end of July, Manchester is preparing for an entire week of exciting activities. They will be holding all the usuals, like the famous Pride parade and party, but they’re also planning some very interesting events and public spaces. One of the public spaces that Manchester is creating is the Superbia Weekend, which is designed as an alternative to the raging parties. It’s an alcohol-free event space dedicated to art, culture, and community. For anyone who doesn’t drink, or even for someone just looking to take a break from the parties, Superbia will be filled with pop-up art galleries, community yoga classes, author readings and signings, and even a sober post-parade party. As August approaches, a full roster of Superbia events will become available. Manchester’s most powerful event is their annual candlelight vigil, held at Sackville Gardens. The vigil is the final event on the final night of Pride, and closes out the celebrations. It’s a time for the community to come together and pay their respects to the countless people who have lost their lives to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, and to acknowledge the stigma that still exists within society today. With this summer hopefully marking a massive turning point in the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s candlelight vigil is sure to be a powerful reminder of how fast life can change and how important community is. ManchesterPride.com
MONTRÉAL, CANADA
Montreal is known as the cultural hub of Canada, and their pride schedule reflects that. Rather than endless parties, Montreal has created their 2021 Pride schedule to be more about reflection, learning, and healing. The AFROPRIDE event series will be designed specifically for Black queer, trans, and nonbinary people. The series will include events about queerness and fashion, transitioning as a Black person, the connection between the LGBTQ and BLM movements, and more. Montreal Pride will also be hosting a mental health series, which was created to help the large number of LGBTQ people who report struggling with mental illness. Sessions in the series will focus on depression, panic attacks, and queerphobia, among others. But there’s also going to be a lot more going on in Montreal Pride. The event calendar also includes a literary festival, drag shows, art exhibitions, and much more. FiertMTL.com
NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND
Newport has found some clever ways to create an in-person Pride event while also giving residents the ability to partake in other ways if they feel more comfortable. On June 26th, everyone in Newport is invited to partake in the Pride Ride, a three-mile bike ride throughout the town. It’s an awesome way for people to join a group activity, while also being able to space themselves out. After the bike ride, a Pride Market and Festival will take place where you can support LGBTQ artisans, crafters, and chefs. This year’s Pride will Also Feature $5 Pride Pins. The proceeds from each pin will go to help fund LGBTQ public artworks. It’s also a great idea for anyone who wants to support Pride this year, but who doesn’t feel comfortable partaking in group activities. Simply buy a pin, strap it on your shirt, and go out for a walk. You’ll be helping artists and showing your support for the community at the same time! NewportOut.com
