Unfurl the flags and charge the JBL speakers. Pride makes its annual appearance across Greater Boston in block parties, bingo and the much anticipated marches this weekend. The Boston Pride march is June 6, but Cambridge and Somerville residents are celebrating all month long.
For ideas on how to spend Pride we’ve created a list that highlights local talent and businesses who embody the community aspect of Pride.
June 8 and more: Pride Celebration (The Brattle)
The only thing better than one gay film is lots of them! The Brattle is screening classics from the queer film canon throughout June for its Pride Celebration, presented by Wicked Queer. On Monday, June 8th is “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” a zany musical comedy about three drag performers taking their act across Australia. The Brattle is offering a craft-along opportunity for watchers, come prepared with your crafts of choice and enjoy this campy romp. Check the calendar for more classics.
June 9: On The Rocks (State Park)
Is “dragtivist” a word? Call her Miss Jade Rock, a drag queen for the ages. Standing at the intersection of advocacy and performance is Miss Jade, a multi-faceted artist and community leader. Miss Jade has her residency, “On the Rocks” at State Park with monthly drag shows featuring a rotating cast of performers. “On the Rocks” is a guaranteed good time, and is completely free. Indulge in State Park’s robust drink and dinner menu while you enjoy a night of unforgettable entertainment.
June 10: Figure and Portrait Drawing (The Loov)
Artists of all mediums are welcome to The Loov for live drawing events this month. On June 10th is a Queer Gilded Age portrait session hosted by the Gibson House Museum. Accompanying a modelling duo are historians to walk the audience through the layers and function of a typical Gilded Age outfit. An hour-long pose session follows. Later this month is Drag and Queer figure drawing in the same studio. This event features partial nudity and a performance by local drag king Ebeneezer Splooge. Snacks and supplies are provided for both events. Admission is $15.
June 19: Girls Like Girls (Somerville Theatre)
Beat the heat while reliving 2015 with Hayley Kiyoko’s directorial debut film “Girls Like Girls.” Inspired by the hit song of the same name, “Girls Like Girls” is the much anticipated follow-up to a wanton cry from fans of the music video. “This needs to be a movie!” has rang out across comment sections for the last decade, and Hayley Kiyoko is finally delivering. There’s a screening at the Somerville Theatre on June 19th, so bring a shoulder to cry on while watching this soon-to-be queer classic. Tickets on sale soon.
June 21: Big Gay Dance Party (Union Square)
Dancing in the street! Grab your SPF and hit the pavement for the Big Gay Dance Party. True to its name, the BGDP takes over Union Square by storm in a flurry of costumes, DJ’s and drag queens. This year’s theme: “Summerween.” Halloween best is encouraged for this all-ages event. Get familiar with local LGBT+ organizations tabling the event and pose for professional photographer Megan Senturk. Everyone is welcome and registration is not necessary.
June 26: The Femmes (Crystal Ballroom)
Back for their fourth Pride show, The Femmes are bringing their best to the Crystal Ballroom. Composed of women and non-binary performers, The Femmes promise an electric live experience. This year’s pride show is set to be their best with never-before-heard covers and a special performance from Chanel the Angel. Chanel the Angel has performed alongside Chappell Roan and Ke$ha, and made history as the first trans performer for the Red Sox. Arrive early to secure a spot close to the stage, or hang back and enjoy the bar. Tickets are available as General Admission, and doors open at 8 p.m.
June 27: Drag Story Time (Cambridge Public Library)
Children of all ages are invited to Drag Story Time at the Cambridge Public Library. Make new friends and learn about all the different things that make us special. Stay out of the sun with liberal air conditioning and an opportunity to make unlikely connections. This is a free event and open to children and caregivers.
Various in June: Club nights (ManRay)
ManRay has always prided itself on being an inclusive space for the LGBT+ community. From leather to latex, the ManRay calendar is chock full of pride events all month long. Dance the night away to New Wave music Heroes, featuring DJ (and Magnetic Fields member) Chris Ewen on Saturdays, or tap into the recurring fetish events on June 19th and 20th. It wouldn’t be Pride without a few costume changes, and at minimum guests are asked to adhere to a basic all-black dress code upon entry. Dress it up or take it all off with great music and a more mature, off the record crowd.
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