Austin’s Pride Month is back this August. While the capital city is already one of the most gay-friendly areas in Texas, there is always more action to take to make the environment more welcoming, accepting and encouraging for all. Below are some of our recommendations for different ways to show love to the LGBTQIA+ community, from partaking in annual fêtes to championing different queer-owned establishments and nonprofit organizations.

Participate in City-Wide Activations

Camp Whimsy

Aug. 13,  The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center

Hosted by Thee Gay Agenda, Camp Whimsy is a one night summer-camp-themed variety showcase of queer performers. Beginning at 8 p.m., the evening will feature comedy, drag, DJ sets and more on the museum’s rooftop. Reserve tickets in advance and be prepared to dress up in your version of camp gear. This evening is intended for mature audiences.

Pride Parade & Festival

Aug. 20

One of the city’s most iconic celebrations, the Austin Pride Parade is returning in-person in a huge way. Guests are invited to join thousands of others on the jubilant march down Congress Avenue at night. During the day, festival headliner CupcakKe will take the stage. Other daytime events include carnival rides, drag queen story time and hundreds of vendor booths. All ages are welcome to this celebration, and tickets are available now.

aGLIFF’s PRISM 35

Aug. 24 – 28

Austin’s oldest film festival is back to celebrate both the history and ongoing stories of the LGBTQIA+ community. Throughout the city, aGLIFF will host screenings, parties, Q&A sessions and more, with the full lineup to be announced soon. The festival is a consistently enriching experience of viewing important films and partaking in discourse with fellow moviegoers.

The Front Fest

Aug. 25 – 28

This annual end-of-summer festival is back after a long wait. For the first time since before the pandemic, Future Front Texas will host its four day multi-venue event, featuring lineups centered around women and LGBTQIA+ artists, from Aug. 25 to 28. Programming includes music performances at Parish, a short film showcase at The Contemporary Austin’s Laguna Gloria, pool parties at The LINE Hotel and more creative experiences. Purchase tickets for individual days or the full weekend here, with proceeds benefiting the Creative Future of Texas Fund.

Patron LGBTQIA+ Businesses

Cheer Up Charlies

One of the most lively gay bars in downtown Austin, this discotheque and creative event venue offers queer friendly fun year-round. Locals can spend their nights out in the neon-lit patio dancing to live music and DJ sets or catching a drag show. There’s also a selection of tasty cocktails as well as vegan bites from the food truck Arlo’s.

Garden Seventeen

This LGBTQIA+-owned greenhouse and garden store holds everything you need to beautify your landscape. Stroll through the plant haven and find a huge selection of greenery along with gardening supplies, locally-made pottery and garden art. Whether you have a green thumb or are new to the art of cultivating plants, Garden Seventeen provides a lush and welcoming atmosphere to everyone.

The Little Gay Shop

Pride is a never-ending holiday at The Little Gay Shop. With the intention to give exposure and credit to the thriving art scene within the queer community, this business offers charming apparel, accessories, stickers, home goods, pride flags and more, all exclusively made by LGBTQIA+ people. Be sure to check out their special new collection specifically made for Austin Pride.

Give Back to Nonprofit Organizations

Equality Texas

With a mission to eliminate discriminatory legislation towards LGBTQIA+ populations, Equality Texas brings people together to create political action. Participants can effect positive change by attending their events, pledging to vote, volunteering, donating and educating themselves further on unjust matters regarding the queer community. Equality Texas gives Austinites a chance to be part of the fight to ensure safety and inclusion for all people of Texas.

​​allgo

Promoting artistic expression, health and wellness and social justice, allgo is a grassroots organization focused on progress for queer people of color. Get involved by volunteering at their creative events and performances, joining the event planning committees, writing newsletters, facilitating workshops or donating to sustain these projects.

Out Youth

Securing bright futures for LGBTQIA+ youth, this organization provides programs and services around Central Texas that offer emotional and material support. With counseling and resources like groceries and hygiene products available, Out Youth ensures that these young people have positive self-images and a caring community to fall back on at any time. Contribute to their efforts with a donation or volunteer work.