LGBTQ Pride celebrations are held every year. These celebrations, especially those in the US, attract people of all ethnicities, religions, and sexual orientations. And of course, people visiting the US are free join in on the party!
ESTA America allows you to stay in the US for pleasure or business for up to two years. This guide looks at some of the LGBTQ-friendly destinations and pride celebrations in the country.
Capital Pride
This particular Pride celebration takes place in Washington, DC. While most of the festivities are focused on a single weekend in early June, the Washington celebrations last for more than a week, with other events taking place throughout the season, as well as Washington D.C.’s Black Pride.
If you begin your Pride celebrations in Washington D.C., you could always travel up the East Coast and experience the New York City Pride…
NYC Pride
Though the NYC Pride may seem like a party, the roots of Pride are embedded in the city’s history. 1969 marked the start of the modern movement for LGBTQ rights when police raided the Stonewall Inn, causing a riot against the police’s treatment of the LGBTQ community: Those protests are marked every year during the Pride celebrations, which is one of the most popular festivals in New York.
Towards the end of June, there is a parade and a rally with over 350 groups marching all over Manhattan. You can get a great view of the parade on Christopher Street outside the Stonewall Inn.
PrideFest
The PrideFest celebration in Denver, Colorado, happens in June and attracts over 350,000 people. The celebrations include fun activities for everyone such as face painting for children, a parade, concerts, parties, and a five-kilometre run.
These celebrations are considered the most family-friendly Pride celebrations in the United States. Denver also has a Dogs in Drag Parade, which is among the most beloved celebrations of the PrideFest.
San Francisco Pride
You do not want to miss out on the San Francisco Pride as it’s the largest gay pride event throughout California. It is among the most popular Pride celebrations worldwide attracting nearly one million people.
Events include a festival and a parade that takes over the streets and the city’s Civic Center. These festivities embody the ideals of freedom of love, human rights, and expression – things San Franciscans advocate for and embrace.
Key West Pride
Key West’s festivities and parade take place in the early part of June. Arguably the laid-back vibe in Key West sets it apart from other events in major cities such as New York City and Miami.
Key West Pride is celebrated in true island style with an easy-to-join and tropical vibe with just the perfect number of participants.