Get Your Pride On: Your Guide To Metro Detroit LGBTQ+ Events
Story by Ami Nicole
Looking to find all the events you could possibly want for Pride 2023? We’ve got you covered. Check out the offerings for June and July in the Metro Detroit area celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community!
Friday, June 9: Pride+ and Allies Open Mic
Room Project, 6513 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: The 2023 InsideOut Youth Advisory Board presents: Pride+ and Allies Poetry Open Mic
Doors: 5:30 PM/Show: 6-7:30 PM
In celebration of Pride month, Youth and Adult poets are welcome to sign up and perform one piece on our Pride+ and Allies open mic! Light refreshments will be provided. Advanced sign-up is preferred, with a few spots available for walk-in poets.
The event is free and will include a performance from the 2023 Youth Advisory Board.”
Saturday, June 10 - Sunday June 11: Motor City Pride
Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “Motor City Pride is Michigan's largest pride celebration, with over 50,000 participants in our pride events. We are an entirely volunteer-run organization with a mission of spreading awareness thru pride.”
The festival is a 2-day event, with performances, food, and more at Hart Plaza. Here is the entertainment schedule:
Saturday, June 10, 2023
Hosted by Sabin
1:15pm Breakfast for Dinner
2:00pm Better Love
3:00pm Sabin’s Drag Revue
4:00pm The Iron Roses
5:00pm Boys of Fall
6:00pm Sabin’s Drag Revue
7:00pm Siena Liggins
8:00pm The Robyn Party
9:00pm Stage Closes
Sunday, June 11, 2023
Hosted by Andrew Christian
Noon DJ CIV
1:00pm PRISM Men’s Chorus
2:00pm Drag Show: Robin Fierce from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Jasmine Kennedie from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Sabin
3:00pm Little Visits
4:00pm Mama Yaya
5:00pm Andrew Christian
5:30pm JORDY
6:15pm DJ CIV
7:00pm Stage Closes
Saturday, June 10: Pride After Party
Pronto Royal Oak, 608 S Washington Ave, Royal Oak, MI
The Event Pitch: “Get ready to experience the ultimate extravaganza of the season! It's time to turn up the volume and embrace the spirit of inclusivity at the one and only 'Pride Party' of the weekend! Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing presence of the fabulous RuPaul's Drag Race All-Star Queen herself, LaLa Ri, as she takes the stage and sets it on fire with her fierce performance.
Joining the festivities is none other than the sensational men's fashion extraordinaire designer, Andrew Christian. Get ready to witness a dazzling showcase of his jaw-dropping creations that will leave you in awe. And as if that wasn't enough, brace yourself for a mind-blowing experience as our dancing models bring their electrifying moves to the floor, making it impossible to resist the urge to join in.
But that's not all, because this night promises to be filled with surprises and excitement as we bring you a lineup of local iconic drag entertainers who will dazzle you with their mind-blowing talent and charm. With their captivating performances and infectious energy, they will ensure that the celebration continues well into the night.
So mark your calendars for Saturday, June 10th, starting at 9pm, and get ready to immerse yourself in a night of pure joy, laughter, and unapologetic self-expression. Stay tuned for more exhilarating details, because this Pride Party is going to be an absolute blast that you won't want to miss!”
Saturday, June 10: Pride Month Pet Photos!! Celebrate Pride in Detroit!!
Premier Pet Supply, 1511 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “Come see us at Premier Pet Supply in Detroit on June 10th 2 -5 PM!
$10 photos and every dollar goes to Detroit Valley cats! You receive a 4 x 6 print on site. Option to purchase digitals!”
Sunday, June 11: Beyonce Drag Queen Bingo
Detroit Shipping Company, 474 Peterboro St, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “Get in formation and prepare for a bootylicious bingo experience like no other. Our drag performers will be serving up fierce looks and hosting a variety of exciting rounds featuring Beyoncé-inspired twists. From "Single Ladies" dance-offs to "Irreplaceable" special prizes, this bingo event will keep you on your toes and your hips shaking!
But wait, there's more! We're Crazy in Love with giving back, which is why a portion of each ticket sale will be donated to the Ruth Ellis Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing safe spaces and support for the local LGBTQ+ community.
So, whether you're a "Survivor" or a "Halo" fanatic, come dressed in your best Beyoncé-inspired attire and get ready to sashay, shantay, and slay your way through an afternoon of bingo, beverages, and Beyoncé brilliance!
Get your tickets now because this event is going to be "Flawless." Don't miss out on the opportunity to have a blast while supporting a fantastic cause.
Note: This event is strictly 18+.
*** Disclaimer: This event is a celebration of Beyoncé's music and performance, and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Beyoncé herself. ***”
Friday, June 16: Drag Queen Bingo Dinner & Pride After Party
Hot Box Social, 23610 John R Rd, Hazel Park, MI
The Event Pitch: “Join us for Drag Bingo Dinner at 7pm, stop by for our Pride After Party at 9pm, or stay for both experiences with our VIP ticket! A portion of proceeds is benefitting Affirmations in Ferndale.
Visit with brands on-site such as Wynk, Bitchcraft, and Sugar House with complimentary 🍃 samples! Free delivery available from Breeze all night.
Must be 21+ with a valid government-issued photo ID to participate. No outside food or beverage. No alcohol permitted.
Saturday, June 17: Pride Bar Crawl - 6th Annual
Bookies Bar & Grille, 2208 Cass Ave, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “20% Of Event Proceeds Will Be Donated To The Trevor Project! What You Get: 1-2 Drink Or Shot Included With Ticket, Free Cover To Our Drag Show! ($15 Without Ticket), Crawl With US Stadium Cup! (First 400 Check Ins), Exclusive Drink Specials, Food Specials At Partner Venues, Waived Cover At All Venues ($5-$15 at Some Venues Without Ticket), Professional Photographers, Custom Pride Badge With Vouchers.”
Partnered Venues: Bookie’s Bar & Grille, Brass Rail, Checker Bar Detroit, Harry’s, Love and Tequila, Tin Roof Detroit. Afterparty at 3Fifty Terrace.
Saturday, June 17: 2023 Official Pride Bar Crawl Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “Get ready to rainbow and roll with us at the Official Pride Bar Crawl! We'll be hitting up the hottest LGBTQ+- friendly bars and clubs in town, and you're invited to come along for the ride.
Dress to impress and come ready to party with a purpose. We've got amazing deals and discounts lined up at each stop, and we'll be shaking our rainbow-colored tails all night long.
TICKET INCLUDES: Bar Crawl LIVE Wristband, Full Access To Top Venues, Door Cover Charges Waived, Up To 50% OFF Drinks, Up To 20% OFF Select Foods
A portion of each ticket sold will be donated to the Trevor Project and the local Pride organization.”
Bars Included:
Exodos Rooftop
529 Monroe St
Level Two Rooftop
535 Monroe St
Delmar Rooftop
501 Monroe St
Delux Nightclub
350 Monroe St
Mix Nightclub
641 Beaubien Blvd
Three Legged Goat
517 Monroe St
Saturday, June 17: GP Pride 2023 by WEGP
Village of Grosse Pointe, Starting Point: Corner of Kercheval and St. Clair
The Event Pitch: “GP Pride by WE GP will be held on Saturday, June 17th from 1 to 3:00 pm in the Village of Grosse Pointe at the corner of Kercheval and St. Clair. Participants are encouraged to bring friends, neighbors and leashed and friendly Pride pups along for this family-friendly event.
Join us this year at GP Pride for a short march, music, activities for children, a selfie station, activism opportunities and so much more! Bring your signs, your joy, your pride and your commitment to full equality.
We are thrilled this year to be working with Main Street Grosse Pointe for the June 17th Pride Day event.”
Saturday, June 17: Livonia's 1st Annual Pride Celebration & Resource Fair
5 Mile & Farmington Road, Livonia, MI
The Event Pitch: “Celebrate Pride Month with the Livonia Democratic Club + Livonia Human Relations Commission on Saturday, June 17th from 11am to 1pm at Civic Center Park by City Hall.
The FREE public event will include dozens of educational and support service organizations, light refreshments, and activities for all ages.
Guests are welcome to bring personal items to donate for the Ruth Ellis Center.”
Thursday, June 22: Drinks & Drag at Time Will Tell
Time Will Tell, 6408 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “Time Will Tell is hosting Drinks & Drag! Join us at the bar or at a table for an intimate drag show! Each ticket includes a welcome drink, and a portion of all ticket sales will be donated to The Ruth Ellis Center. Seatings at 7:00pm and 9:15.”
Saturday, June 24: Pride Ride 2023
Trek Bicycle Detroit Midtown, 3613 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “WHAT IT IS: A ride to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community followed by refreshments.
The RIDE: A casual, no-drop 10 –12-mile cruise to kick off the event.
The FUN: A great experience for everyone who attends — refreshments, games, and positive vibes.”
Saturday, June 24: Pride Party At Ferndale Project With Nikki Holland & The Dirty Elizabeths
Ferndale Project, the experimental arm of Eastern Market Brewing Co.
The Event Pitch: “Join us as we celebrate PRIDE month at one of the best breweries around metro Detroit - Ferndale Project!”
Saturday, June 24: Pride In The Park (Formerly Rochester Pride)
400 6th St, Rochester, MI
The Event Pitch: “Join us for the third annual Pride in the Park (Formally Rochester Pride) event at the Kiwanis Pavilion in the Rochester Municipal Park. The event starts at 1 PM and goes on till 4 PM.
There will be live music, free swag, food, guest speakers, and so much more!
For more information, please stay updated on Forever Pride social media accounts. But for right now, please RVSP so we can estimate how many people will be at the event!”
Sunday, June 25: Drag Bingo & Brunch
Brewery Faisan, 1087 Beaufait, Detroit, MI
The Event Pitch: “If you’re looking for a fun and fabulous way to spend your Sunday, look no further than drag bingo and brunch at Brewery Faisan. On June 25th, you’ll get to savor tasty food and drinks, win fabulous prizes, and witness our queens. And you’ll be doing it for a good cause: the Ruth Ellis Center, a charity that helps LGBTQ+ youth in need.”
Sunday, June 25: Queens in the Garden Summer Dinner with Chef Allie Lyttle
Frame, 23839 John R Rd #2, Hazel Park, MI 48030
The Event Pitch: “Gather your fabbest friends for a one-night-only summer drag battle like you’ve never seen before. Queens in the Garden: A Drag Extravaganza!
We’re capping Pride Month with Chef Allie Lyttle and our besties at Slay Events & Entertainment to uplift our LGBTQ+ community with a special night of glitter, glam, and dazzling food, benefiting Affirmations Detroit and Corktown Health.
Get ready for “Queens in the Garden,” an epic drag battle that’s set to sizzle and sparkle throughout your meal. That’s right — we’re serving up scintillating performances from dueling drag queens who’ll be strutting their stuff, vying for the crown amidst the greenery of Frame’s dreamy garden pavilion.
Chef Allie is matching the energy with bright flavors, vibrant colors, and a presentation that’s almost too pretty to eat. Almost. Think: watermelon gazpacho with Tajin creme fraiche, shaved summer salad with asparagus and chive blossom vinaigrette, Parisian-style gnocchi with pesto and pickled rhubarb, roast pork with morel pasta and pickled cherry gremolata, and a glammed-up dessert stunner you’ll have to see to believe.
With the backing of a live DJ, our extraordinary performers are bringing high drama and high heels to match Chef Allie’s colorful cuisine.
Featuring:
Kourtney Charles as our host
Katrina Alexis Monae
Golden O’Hara Polo
Jezebel
Belladonna Marz
Infestasia
Krista Darrows
Perry Dox
Music:
DJ Rekt
Don your sassiest summer best; and plan for photo ops with the queens after dinner.
You don’t want to miss Frame at its most fabulous.”
Sunday, June 25: 2nd Annual Saint Clair Shores Pride March
23001 E 9 Mile Rd, St Clair Shores, MI
The Event Pitch: “The Saint Clair Shores Residents for Equality group brings to the Shores our 2nd Annual Pride March to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and the diversity of our city.
Join us at 11am for speakers behind the Chapoton Pump Station 23001 E. 9 Mile Rd., Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080,
Afterwards, we will march up Jefferson (please stay on the sidewalk) to Blossom Health Park to the end of the Pier and then back to the start.
You do not have to walk the entire distance (1.5 Miles), you may stop at any point to wave the flag and cheer.”
Sunday, June 25: 2023 Pride Picnic
40400 Utica Rd, Sterling Heights, MI
“Celebrate Pride Month with Macomb County Pride! This year, we are partnering with the Sterling Heights CommUNITY Alliance and making sure our Pride Picnic is bigger than ever - so we will be at the Dodge Park Farmers Market Pavilion!
Grab a picnic blanket, your favorite picnic lunch, and get ready for some fun! We will bring music & some yard games! There is no cost for this event.”
Sunday, June 25: Berkley Pride
Downtown Berkley between Robina & Griffith, south of 12 Mile
Sunday, June 25 from 12pm-4pm
FREE PARKING
The Event Pitch: “Join us in Downtown Berkley for the 2nd Annual Berkley Pride Block Party sponsored by Sigal Law Firm! This year will be twice as big and twice as fun with a stellar lineup of activities for all ages, entertainment, booth browsing, food trucks, and more!
Includes:
Kids Tent (with crafts and face painting)
Teen Lounge (with games and crafts)
DIY Shirt Stamping with Jules and Blick
DJ Laura from L Sharp Productions
Vendor Booths (Over 30 and counting!)
Food Trucks & Vendors
Berkley Love Notes Interactive Art Project
Braid Bar by Chemistry Salon
Drag Queen Storytime
Drag Queen Bingo
Ask a Drag Queen
Bubble & Prop Station
Photo Opps
Berkley Pride Shirts For Sale
A *Very* Colorful Grand Finale (powder fight anyone?)
We are working on locking down some other cool things as well so stay tuned as we update the lineup!
Downtown Berkley Pride Block Party welcomes all LGBTQ+ community members, allies, and organizations to come together for an afternoon celebrating diversity, inclusion and community.
Free family fun! Plus, free parking in Berkley.”
July 8: South Lyon Pride In The Park
The Event Pitch: “Join us for South Lyon’s 3rd annual Pride event, Pride in the Park 🌈!! We’ll have an awesome D.J. , drag queen performances, as well as cool vendors, and non-profits to check out! And of course our annual kids Rainbow Run around the park! And more!! We look forward to celebrating Pride with you all!”
July 14-16: Hotter Than July, LGBTQ Detroit Events
Various Locations
The Event Pitch: “Hotter Than July started in 1996 to celebrate Detroit’s Black LGBTQ+ community. It holds the title as the worlds second oldest Black LGBTQ+ Pride with over 9,000 in attendance in person in 2019. Hosted by LGBT Detroit, this week long of events partners with community leaders and supporters by offering various safe spaces for educating and showcasing the culture.”
Events Include:
ELECTED CANDIDATE FORUM
LGBT Detroit Marvin Lee Building | 20021 Greenfield Rd, Detroit, MI 48235
CANDLELIGHT VIGIL
Palmer Park | 910 Merrill Plaisance St, Detroit, MI 48203
BOOK FESTIVAL
LGBT Detroit Marvin Lee Building | 20021 Greenfield Rd, Detroit, MI 48235
TESTING ZONE
Palmer Park | 910 Merrill Plaisance St, Detroit, MI 48203
MUSIC CONCERT
Sound Board at Motor City Casino Hotel | 2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48201 | 21+ UP
WORSHIP SERVICE
Tindal Activity Center | 10301 W. 7 Mile Rd, Detroit, MI 48221
AWARDS BRUNCH
The Charlevoix Gallery | 14505 Charlevoix St, Detroit, MI 48215