WORCESTER – The city of Worcester is celebrating Pride with a week’s worth of events focused on the LGBTQ+ community. From now until Sept. 14, the events range from celebrations like the Worcester Youth Pride Prom and the Pride Rally and Queer the Block Party to community outreach and awareness such as free STI testing and the Queer & Sober Gratitude Meeting.
After not being able to host get-togethers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pride Worcester is back and better than ever.
Starting Saturday, Sept. 11, at 8 AM at Green Hill Park, the Queer & Sober – Gratitude Meeting gives members of the LGBTQ+ community the opportunity to share their stories of sobriety while focusing on the positive elements of gratitude. This free event is not affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Donations made at the event will benefit the Addiction Referral Center.
The Pride Rally & Queer the Block Party will take place 11 AM to 4 PM at the Worcester Beer Garden at 64 Franklin Street. This year’s rally is full of exciting attractions featuring drag performers, dancers, speakers, artists, and food trucks. STI testing and voter registration will also be available.
A Drag Brunch will take place at Polar Park from 12 PM to 2 PM. Brunch will be served at the stadium with entertainment provided by Nikita Le Femme, Natasha Starr, Tee Sparks, Miss Royal Beauty International Plus, and Victoria Obvious. Tickets are $20 a person with proceeds benefitting WooSox Foundation and its focus on social justice.
The Saturday events will conclude with the Ladies Pride Tea Dance taking place from 4 PM to 8 PM at the Worcester Beer Garden. The dance is $10 a ticket and will feature door prizes, raffles, and giveaways. Attendees must be 21+.
Pride Weekend with the WooSox takes place on Saturday and Sunday with special ticket packages and events such as Sunset Catch on the Field presented by Dunkin’ and Pride at the Park. A portion of all ticket proceeds will benefit Safe Homes Massachusetts located in Worcester.
This year’s Pride Worcester sponsors include Berkshire Bank, The Hanover Insurance Group, Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center, Downtown Worcester, Safe Homes. Worcester Beer Garden, and Wings Over Worcester.
