In New Orleans, Pride Month unfolds as a vibrant celebration of joy, remembrance, resistance, and community for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Throughout June, the city becomes a dynamic canvas filled with parades, drag shows, art, and activism, showcasing the strides made toward equality while highlighting the journey ahead.
This year’s lineup of events promises to be one of the most diverse and inclusive yet, catering to every facet of the community, from families and faith groups to nightlife lovers and advocates for housing justice. There is something for everyone—from grand celebrations in the streets to intimate moments of reflection in historic spaces.
The Sunday Drag Brunch at Saint John in the French Quarter exemplifies this spirit of inclusivity. Every Sunday throughout June, the brunch series features exciting performances by popular local queens Debbie with a D and Laveau Contraire, along with special guest entertainers. This event serves a dual purpose; in addition to the brunch festivities, 25% of proceeds from their specialty Pride cocktail, Tongue in Cheek, will be donated to PrEP on Demand, a telehealth service improving access to HIV prevention and treatment.
Complementing mainstream festivities is Black Pride NOLA, which emphasizes the experiences of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. The highlight of this celebration is Community Fest, scheduled for Saturday, June 14, at Armstrong Park. This free, family-friendly festival will feature live music, local food vendors, and community resources, celebrating the cultural contributions and visibility of Black queer New Orleanians.
The New Orleans Pride Parade, set for Saturday, June 14, will add to the excitement as it winds through the Marigny and French Quarter, uniting various local businesses, nonprofits, schools, and social clubs in a colorful and dynamic display of acceptance and equality. Following the parade, the festivities will continue with afterparties throughout the city, encompassing the lively spirit of New Orleans.
For those interested in exploring the city’s rich queer history, the Walking With the Gay Ghosts of New Orleans tour offers a unique perspective. This guided walking tour, available June 13-15, starts at Café Lafitte in Exile—the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the U.S.—and shares the stories of iconic LGBTQ+ figures while uncovering the hidden histories that shaped modern queer life in the city.
Additionally, Habitat for Humanity is inviting the LGBTQ+ community and allies to get involved with Pride Build weekends. Participants can engage in building affordable housing for local families, reinforcing the message that Pride is not just about celebration but also about creating lasting foundations of equity and care.
The Longue Vue House and Gardens is set to host its annual Family Equality Day on June 1, an event designed to embrace LGBTQ+ parents and their children through crafts, music, storytelling, and inclusive activities in a beautiful garden setting.
As the month progresses, other events like Queer Mountain at The AllWays Lounge on June 13 will feature storytelling from diverse LGBTQ+ voices. Furthermore, on June 29, PFLAG New Orleans will host its 8th annual Pride Run & Walk, with proceeds supporting the PFLAG Scholarship Program in the community.
Overall, Pride Month in New Orleans stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit—bold, loving, and unapologetically defiant. Whether through joyous celebrations, acts of service, or explorations of history, participants can connect to the heart and soul of New Orleans’ LGBTQ+ community.