By Ericka Alston Buck
Special to the AFRO
Get ready, Baltimore. Pride Week is back and bigger than ever.
From June 10-16, Charm City will come alive with vibrant celebrations as it honors the theme “Power Of The Past, Force of The Future.” This year, with some Baltimore Pride events being hosted by the Pride Center of Maryland, promises a week of unforgettable events celebrating the rich history and dynamic future of the LGBTQ+ community, especially highlighting the contributions and resilience of the queer community in Baltimore.
A Proud History
Baltimore Pride has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1975, when a small group of activists gathered for a peaceful demonstration. Over the decades, this event has grown into a grand celebration of love, diversity and progress. From Mount Vernon, Downtown, Charles Plaza to Druid Hill Park, the locations have changed, but the spirit remains the same. Today, it stands as a powerful testament to the city’s commitment to inclusivity and equality.
Must-Attend Events
Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on these fabulous events lined up for Pride Week 2024.
June 15:
Desires Pride Party
Location: Safari DC
Time: 9 p.m,
End your night with a bang at this lively Pride party.
Catonsville Pride 2024
Location: Catonsville Presbyterian Church, 1400 Frederick Rd., Catonsville.
Time: 3-6 p.m.
Celebrate Pride in the suburbs with this family-friendly event.
Responders For Pride Drag Brunch
Location: Donna’s Tavern & Restaurant
Time: 12 p.m.
A drag brunch dedicated to our brave first responders.
Diaspora Salon Pride Parade Watch Party
Location: Diaspora Salon
Time: 1 p.m.
Enjoy the parade with a fantastic view and great company.
June 15-16
Baltimore Pride After Party featuring Sapphira Cristál
Location: Baltimore Soundstage, 124 Market Place
Dance the night away at this spectacular after-party.
Untangled: Official Baltimore Pride After party
Location: Angels Rock Bar Baltimore, 10 Market Place
Another great after-party option to keep the celebrations going into the early hours.
June 16:
Join FARM at the Baltimore Pride Festival
Location: 2418 St Paul St.
Time: 2 p.m.
Engage with local organizations and celebrate the culmination of Pride week with community
activities.
THE BLACK MALL SUNDAY – Shop with two floors of Black Businesses
Location: The Black Mall
Time: 1 p.m.
Support Black-owned businesses and find unique treasures at this special event.
Stormchaser Drag Brunch: Pride Edition
Location: The Brewer’s Cask
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Enjoy a thrilling drag brunch to start your Pride Sunday.
Pride At Lost Ark!
Location: Lost Ark Distilling Co.
Time: 12 p.m.
Celebrate with delicious drinks and great company at this distillery event.
Official Baltimore Pride Closing Party
Location: Anonymous Restaurant & Lounge, 1225 Cathedral St.
Time: 5-9 p.m.
Close out the week with a final celebration of unity and pride.
June 19:
Black Is Beautiful Mirror Work Workshop
Location: 5621 Old Frederick Rd.
Time: 1 p.m.
A self-care workshop celebrating the beauty and strength of the Black community.
June 21:
Pride Cake Decorating Workshop (ages 13+)
Location: Flavor Cupcakery & Bake Shop
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Get creative with a fun and festive cake decorating workshop.
June 22:
PRIDE Hen House: Drag, Comedy, Burlesque Show
Location: The Crown Baltimore
Time: 8 p.m.
A night of drag, comedy and burlesque to keep the Pride spirit alive.
June 23:
Illusions Drag Brunch Baltimore Pride Edition
Location: Mother’s Federal Hill Grille
Time: 11 a.m.
End the month with a fabulous drag brunch.
June 29:
PRIDE Drag Show
Location: Pherm Brewing Company
Time: 7 p.m.
Celebrate Pride one last time with an exciting drag show.