Pride Month 2024 kicks off on June 1, and throughout the month, the LGBTQ+ communities in Northern Virginia and DC will gather across the region to mark the occasion. With roots dating back to the 1969 Stonewall riots, Pride Month is a longstanding tradition that encourages LGBTQ+ people and allies to gather and celebrate together, reflect on the history of the social movement, and continue to advocate for the community. To join in on the occasion, check out some of these events happening in the region this June.
Northern Virginia
Arlington Pride
Dates vary
Arlington has several events planned for the month. To start, there’s a kick-off block party at Water Park in National Landing, followed by an LGBTQ+ speed dating event, a community dance party, a Pride Drag Pageant and after-party, and, to wrap it all up, a festival in Long Ridge Park. Locations vary
Reston Pride
June 1, 12–6 p.m.
Reston’s Lake Anne Plaza will be the site of a colorful celebration with the theme “Shine!” to kick off the month. Expect drag performances, live music, food, and community vendors, including a station where visitors can create their mosaic craft. Lake Anne Plaza: 1609 Washington Plz., Reston
Mosaic Pride Celebration
June 1, 3–9 p.m.
It’s a full day of Pride at the Mosaic District. The event begins with a parade, followed by a story time with drag performer Tara Hoot, then performances from an aerialist, a DJ, more drag performers, and live music. Mosaic District: District Avenue, Fairfax
Alexandria Pride Fair
June 1, 3–6 p.m.
The City of Alexandria’s seventh annual Pride fair features live music and a DJ, a dance workshop, food trucks, and a Drag Story Hour at City Hall. Free and confidential health services will be available. Market Square: 301 King St., Alexandria
Out & About Festival
June 22, 6 p.m.
For the second year, Wolf Trap will host a music festival with LGBTQ+ artists and allies. Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes fame headlines, and other performers include Jenny Lewis, Lawrence, and Kim Gordon. 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, tickets start at $49
Pride Drag Brunch
June 22, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Don’t let June go by without a drag brunch experience. At King & Rye, the DMV’s popular drag entertainment group SAD Brunch performs while the crowd digs into a Southern-style brunch. King & Rye: 480 King St., Alexandria, $30 with $25 food minimum
Alexandria’s Official Pride Bar Crawl
June 22, 4 p.m.–midnight
Hit up some of Alexandria’s best bars in your best rainbow attire with the seventh annual bar crawl. Check in at Alexandria Bier Garden and make your way through the city’s bars, where participants receive freebies, waived cover fees, and exclusive drink specials. Twenty percent of the proceeds will benefit community organization Safe Space NOVA. Check-in at Alexandria Bier Garden: 710 King St., Alexandria, $10–$20
Washington, DC
Capital Pride 2024
Dates vary
The biggest Pride party in the region is Capital Pride, DC’s monthlong slate of events. This year’s theme, “Totally Radical” calls back to the activism and progress of the ‘80s and ‘90s. Don’t miss the parade on June 8. The Capital Pride Festival and Concert with performances from Billy Porter, Ava Max, Keke Palmer are on June 9. Locations vary
Washington Blade Pride on the Pier and Fireworks Show
June 8, 2–10 p.m.
Take to the Wharf for the fifth annual Pride on the Pier, hosted by The Washington Blade and LURe DC. At this free Pride Month 2024 event, watch a big-screen showing of the Capital Pride Parade, followed by a drag show and fireworks for the grand finale. Throughout the day, DJs will keep the party going. 101 District Sq., Washington, DC, free entry, VIP tickets $75–$125
Pride Night OUT
Dates vary
Join your favorite DC sports team for a Pride-themed game or match. The Nationals, Mystics, Washington Spirit, and DC United will all host a themed event, where fans may find special giveaways, pregame activities, and other entertainment. Locations vary
Feature image by Ted Eytan for Capital Pride
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