A joyful week of Black queer community.
Mark it down, text the group chat, and start planning the outfits — Philly Black Pride returns April 23–26, bringing four days of unapologetic Black queer joy to the city.
Now celebrating its 27th year, the annual gathering draws thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond for a long weekend of community, celebration, and connection. This year’s theme — “250 Reasons to Celebrate Black Queer Changemakers” — honors the leaders, artists, organizers, and everyday trailblazers shaping Black LGBTQ+ life in Philadelphia.
The festivities center at The Warwick Rittenhouse, with events across the city ranging from community mixers and wellness gatherings to live conversations, empowerment sessions, gaming, and nightlife that will keep the dance floor busy.
But Philly Black Pride has always been more than a party. Organizers call it “party with a purpose,” blending celebration with resources and support that uplift Black LGBTQ+ residents across Philadelphia.
Philly Black Pride started in the late ’90s when local organizers created a space for Black queer community to gather and celebrate — loudly and proudly. Nearly thirty years later, the joy is still going strong. Expect big crowds, big personalities, and all the reasons to celebrate.
Bring your friends. Bring your chosen family. Bring your big bright shining self. Philly Black Pride is ready!
Philly Black Pride Week | April 23–26
phillyblackpride.org | @phillyblkpride
FEATURED EVENTS
The Road to Pride — Live Podcast Recording
April 20 (6:30–8 PM)
PhillyCAM, 699 Ranstead St — Center City
Two podcasts, one mic, and a whole lot of truth-telling. Hung Up and Keepin’ It A Bean join forces for a live conversation about the history of Pride in Philadelphia — the victories, the messiness, and the road that brought us here. Expect storytelling, reflection, and a few moments that might have the room saying, “Oh wow… I did not know that.” Special guest co-host Marquise Richards joins the conversation. Free with RSVP. Drinks and snacks available.
Queerly Beloved: Open Mic Night
April 23 (7–10 PM)
Two Locals Brewing Company, 3675 Market St — University City
We gather here today… in art, in community, and in Pride. Queerly Beloved is an open mic celebration of poetry, music, storytelling, and creative expression. Bring a poem, a song, a dance, or just bring your cheering voice. Expect big feelings, big talent, and the kind of night where the room feels like family. As Toni Cade Bambara said, “The role of the artist is to make the revolution irresistible.”
Thrive: Black LGBTQ+ Empowerment Summit
April 26 (11 AM–3 PM)
Bebashi, 4100 Chester Ave — West Philadelphia
Coffee first, revolution second. The 2nd Annual Thrive Summit gathers activists, influencers, and community leaders for panels and conversations on the issues shaping Black LGBTQ+ life right now. It’s thoughtful, energizing, and just the right amount of powerful — the kind of gathering where you leave with new ideas, new connections, and maybe a few new friends.
🙌 You’re Welcome! 🦄🏳️🌈
Philly Pride Visitor Center is open Thurs to Monday 12pm to 6pm.
Next time you’re wandering through the Gayborhood, duck into the new Philly Pride Visitor Center at 12th and Locust. It’s a small space packed with big history, where local queer legacy gets its moment on the wall.
Inside you’ll find exhibits celebrating the city’s LGBTQ past, guides to queer-friendly spots around town, and reminders that Philadelphia has been showing up for Pride long before rainbow crosswalks were trendy. Indeed, it’s the country’s first visitor center dedicated to welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers and allies!
PRO TIP: Grab a poster of the fabulous Gayborhood mural “Finally on 13th.” This vibrant work by artist Nile Livingston brings the city’s BIPOC ballroom scene to life. Proceeds support Philly Black Pride, helping keep the celebration going year after year.
Philly Pride Visitor Center (map)
12th & Locust (across from the Mazzoni Center)
Open Thurs – Mon, 12pm – 6pm | (267) 514-4759
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