The Ultimate Guide to NYC Pride Fest 2023: Strength in Solidarity
New York City Pride is the largest Pride parade in the U.S., and one of the largest Pride parades in the world. This year's theme is Strength in Solidarity. Even if you aren't an NYC local, New York City and particularly the Pride Fest have so much to offer LGBTQ+ people that it is easy to justify the trip.
I've been to NYC Pride twice, traveling each time and it easily ranks as the most lively Pride parades I've been to. My wife and I will be going with a few friends again this year, and I want to share some of my personal highlights from previous NYC Pride Fests as well as some of the city's most iconic LGBTQ+ landmarks and tried and true hangout spots.
When is New York City's 2023 Pride Fest?
This year, NYC's official Pride events are taking place June 17 - June 25, with the Pride Parade, also known as "The March" taking place at noon on June 25.
Events Not to Miss
With so many different events happening all over the city on Pride weekend, it can be hard to know what to put on your itinerary, but these are my top picks for a weekend that has just enough of everything.
1. The March: NYC's Pride March started in 1970, and has grown since then to be one of the most famous Pride events worldwide. New York City has a rich LGBTQ+ history, with many of the country's groundbreaking LGBTQ+ rights milestones like the Stonewall Riot taking place there. The March is equally a civil rights movement and a celebration for queer people.
2. PrideFest: Taking place just before the parade, PrideFest is a great way to spend the morning before the parade starts. There are street vendors selling Pride merch (in case you forgot to bring your flag), food carts and activities. PrideFest is also a great opportunity to walk around Greenwich Village which is the heart of NYC Pride and will be full of people dressed to the nines.
3. The Stonewall Inn: The Stonewall Inn is perhaps one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ landmarks, and worth a stop for a beer served in a rainbow can. The Stonewall Inn was the site of the riot in 1969 which marked the start of the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement in New York, and inside you'll find memorabilia and historical photos on the walls.
4. Henrietta Hudson: If you are looking for a lesbian bar with nightly dancing and beautiful women, Henrietta Hudson is the place to go. We've been here several times outside of Pride weekend, and there is always a sizable crowd. They have DJs and two bars, and though they don't always post events far in advance, they are sure to have something happening this year for Pride weekend.
The Best NYC Has to Offer
New York City is one of the best Pride parades and their official site has a full list of events happening throughout the weekend. There are curated parties for everyone in the LGBTQ+ community, and NYC goes all out decorating for the weekend and making locals and visitors feel welcomed.
Last year the city was full of huge rainbow light displays, from The Empire State Building to The Oculus and boats docked along the East River, you'll feel welcome as soon as you step foot in the city.