Where to Celebrate Pride Month in Austin
Extravagant drag performances, art markets and more opportunities to honor the LGBTQIA2S+ community this June
June is Pride Month, a time dedicated to honoring the history of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, as well as the progress that has been made. Austin holds its official city-wide celebration of Pride in August, however, Pride festivities are still being held around town this June to cheer on love and freedom of expression. Read on for more information on our favorite gatherings this month.
UMLAUF Pride
The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum is celebrating Pride with two events this June. UMLAUF After Dark: PRIDE on June 2 brings the garden to life with live entertainment, food from The King’s Butler and Butlerette, specialty cocktails and more. On June 8, UMLAUF Family Day: Garden of Rainbows invites families to spend the day outdoors with free art activities, garden exploration and a celebration of love, belonging and self-expression.
Big Gay Drag Brunch and Queer Market
Austin Pride, The Brewtorium and Miss Kelly Kline are bringing back the Big Gay Drag Brunch and Queer Market on Sunday, June 14. The free event starts at 11 a.m., with the show beginning at 1 p.m., giving guests time to grab brunch, order a mimosa bucket or frozen cocktail, shop the market and settle in for Kelly’s Drag Survivor. Guests are encouraged to arrive early for the best seats at The Brewtorium Brewery and Kitchen.
Pride Picnic
Celebrate Pride in the park on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pease Park. Presented by Pease Park Conservancy and Future Front Texas, the event features DJ sets, hands-on art activities, pop-up shops and a book swap with The Little Gay Shop. Enjoy bites and sips from Mariachi Tex-Mex, SnoRide Sno Boxes, and Brother Friend Coffee.
Pride Open House at The Cathedral
The Cathedral will host its June Open House on Friday, June 26, from 7 to 10 p.m. with “Love All Ways,” a solo exhibition by painter Bode Robinson. Presented in honor of Pride Month, the exhibition explores self-acceptance as the foundation for love in all its forms. Guests can view the new work, meet the artist, enjoy live music and complimentary cocktails, and shop the full atxGALS collection inside the East Austin gallery.
The Majestic Ball
The 5th annual Majestic Ball at The Paramount Theatre returns June 6 with the theme “The Rococo Rebellion.” Expect dazzling performances by Diamond Dior Davenport and special guest Shea Couleé, hosted by Icon Natalie Lepore. Compete in OTA categories for over $5,000 in prizes, scored on look, attitude, performance, and runway walk.
Fat Bottom Cabaret Presents “Love. Joy. Defiance.”
Fat Bottom Cabaret will close out Pride Month at the State Theatre on Saturday, June 27, with “Love. Joy. Defiance.,” an evening of performance, glamour and unapologetic self-expression. The show features Fat Bottom Cabaret, Lady Lola LeStrange, Chola Magnolia, Azúcar, Kitty McSparkles and Salem, with Nikki DaVaughn hosting the night. Presented as a celebration of queer resilience and creativity, the cabaret invites guests to choose glitter, mischief and joy for the evening.
Pride on the Trail
The Trail Conservancy will host Pride on the Trail on June 20 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Sand Beach Park. The community run celebrates Pride, movement and inclusivity along one of Austin’s most beloved outdoor spaces.