To the annoyance of stodgy bigots from Edmond to Bartlesville to just about everywhere in Derplahoma, Oklahoma City offers a variety of fabulous ways to celebrate Pride month!
As a cisgender straight male with a beard, I asked some of my 2SLGBTQIA+ friends to share some suggestions.
Here's what they told me:
1.) Pride on 39th (6/2-6/4)
The historic 39th St. "Gayborhood" celebrates its 36th annual Pride parade on June 4th at 6pm, accompanied by many performances and vendors throughout the weekend.
The event's annual parade holds a special place in my friend Amanda's (24, she/her) heart, who says, "Almost every year, I've participated in the Pride parade. It's incredibly fun to be part of a larger and safe community that allows us to fully express who we are."
Nick (31, he/him) has been attending Pride on 39th for 8 years. He said, "I always enjoy strolling through the festival, checking out the various merchandise people have to offer, and witnessing the street come alive with people having a great time."
2.) Drag Shows
What could be more entertaining than a Pride parade? Drag shows, of course! Nick highly recommends The Boom on 39th as the place to catch a fantastic drag show. "The drag show at The Boom or the pool parties at the District Hotel pool are always favorites." My friend Jordan (28, he/him) also suggests checking out the Rising Phoenix on 39th St. He emphasized the importance of showing support by attending and celebrating the community and performers with friends.
3.) PrideFest at Scissortail Park (6/23-6/25)
Parades seem to be a highlight at Pride festivals, and PrideFest's parade on June 25th at 11:00 am is no exception. Jordan expresses, "My favorite part is the parade and the live performances!" PrideFest also features vendors, a Community Zone, and The Royal Resistance youth pageant and drag performance for ages 13-20 on June 24th at 2:45 pm.
As a Plaza District enthusiast, I've attended PRIDE! on the Plaza for six consecutive years, relishing an evening of drag, dance, music, art, vendors, and more. This block party consistently draws large crowds, especially in front of Dig It, where the drag show never fails to amaze.
5.) Angles After Parties
Another crowd favorite during Pride month are the late-night parties at Angles in the gayborhood. "Angles is always a must-visit during Pride. In previous years, it was often only open during this time, so it's even more enjoyable now that it's once again a staple in the district," says Nick. Both Nick and Amanda encourage everyone to stay hydrated. Amanda emphasizes, "Drink lots of water." They also advise staying safe and attending with others from your community. Pride is an event for all.
All three of my friends emphasized the loving, supportive, and communal nature of these events, especially during Pride month. Jordan's advice serves as a great reminder during Pride, "Focus on the community and those who support Pride. There will always be individuals spreading hate, but the community is stronger than the signs that they spent all night making to bring people down."
