10 ways to celebrate Pride this month

1. Pride parade

The Pride parade is probably where most people’s minds go when they think of Pride month. A powerful combination of protest and celebration, the Pride parade is a march, a community event, and a carnival all in one. Cities usually host an annual Pride event, so get Googling to find out what’s happening near you.

And if time is tight, Pride parades aren’t just reserved for the month of June. Brighton Pride is held in August, while London hosts Pride in both June and July. Get dressed up, gather your friends, and have fun in celebration of LGBTQ+ rights!

2. Pride events

Pride celebrations don’t stop there, though, and there’s something for everyone. Keep your eye out for happy hours, drag queen shows, and Pride themed pub/club nights if a more low-key event suits you better. Pride is best when celebrated with other people, whether or not you're a member of the community. Rejoice in the good vibes and celebrate how far we've come!

3. Host your own!

If you don’t want to venture out, bring it home! Host a Pride party for your nearest and dearest. Sport pride colours, listen to some music by artists who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, or watch some movies in celebration. (Spoiler: look below for recommendations.)

4. Show support

Pride celebrations are historically and politically significant, but Pride month also encourages reflection on the way you interact with the queer community. First and foremost, be an ally! If someone you know confides in you about their sexuality or gender expression, support them and let them know you are there if they need anything. Whether or not you're in the community, take the time to inform yourself about the current difficulties the LGBTQIA+ community is facing and use this month to educate yourself further.

5. Have a movie marathon

Delve into cinema produced by LGBTQ+ teams, depicting LGBTQ+ stories. Everything Everywhere All at Once is a recent hit which has gained critical acclaim, winning 7 awards and praise for its poignant exploration of queerness. Other options might be Moonlight, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, and The Birdcage, if you’re into old movies.

6. Change your tune

Listen to and celebrate queer artists and gay icons. Oil of every pearl’s un-insides by SOPHIE is a must-listen album. SOPHIE was a transgender music producer and a figurehead of the hyperpop genre, and Charlie XCX’s Vroom Vroom features her production work. Sofia by Clairo is another moving song about discovering sexuality. Troye Sivan, MUNA, Ethel Cain, Rina Sawayama, Perfume Genius - there are so many incredible artists to chime into. Any if you want a cult classic, any Lady Gaga track is a must.

7. Hit the books

Queer literature has been crucial in shaping LGBTQ+ culture and amplifying queer voices. We’d recommend Giovanni’s Room, The Colour Purple, Orlando, and On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous. These books all depict touching and thought-provoking representations of members of the LGBTQ+ community.

8. Volunteer

Offering your time and effort to volunteer for local LGBTQ+ charities, organisations, youth clubs, and community centres will be hugely impactful and rewarding. Getting involved with actual behind-the-scenes work will give you a deeper understanding of the problems faced by the queer community. 

9. Donate

Donating to LGBTQ+ charities is an effective way to show your support and allyship during Pride month, especially if you’re busy with work, children, or anything that means that you don’t have the time to attend events and in-person celebrations. Charities like Stonewall, MindOut, and Black Trans Alliance work to protect the lives and elevate the voices of members of the LGBTQ+ community.

10. And most importantly, have fun!

Whatever the occasion, whatever the circumstance, Pride month is a month of positivity and celebration – so enjoy yourself in the name of the cause! Pride aims to spread awareness and generate support in a lively and joyous way. As its name makes clear, Pride is about being proud of your authentic self and the true identities of other people, so have fun and spread the love.

Happy Pride!

The Roam Team x