(6.15) Always a good time. RI Pride claims that this year’s PrideFest is bigger and better than ever: more entertainment, more activities, over 200 vendors in the marketplace, social resource organizations, food trucks, Hasbro Kid’s Zone, live entertainment, and a beer, wine and spirits garden (21+, cash only). The theme this year (and every year): Live Your Truth.
And stop by the Rhode Island ACLU table. This year is their 6oth anniversary — why not become a member.
Of course, we always have a table, but this year seems particularly special. Did you know: It was only because of ACLU of RI legal intervention that the first annual Pride Fest was held in 1976.
Access to the PrideFest will be through the south entrance by Wickenden Street and a north entrance at the start of Memorial Blvd and South Water Street.
A perennial favorite is the Illuminated Night Pride Parade which kicks off at 8:30pm at Fulton and Dorrance Streets. (Or just look at the parade map and pick a position along the route. Pride suggests that the prime viewing area is along Weybosset near PPAC.) The parade is a blast with floats and marchers and dancers, music and costumes, and glitter. You can’t help but get caught up in the celebration . . . lots of singalong opportunities. And go ahead and dance and jump around. I promise — nobody will be looking at you.
RI Pride Fest, noon to 7pm, Saturday, June 15, South Water Street, (directions)