Pride Month in Memphis is a movement with tons of small businesses and creators coming together to support the LGBTQ+ community. From the electric energy of Memphis Pride Fest Weekend to the everyday affirming work of local organizations, this city pulses with pride, resilience, and love every June. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s your guide to the best places to eat, shop, and celebrate all things Pride in the 901.
Memphis Pride Fest Weekend (June 5–8, 2025)
Memphis Pride Fest Weekend is the centerpiece of Pride Month celebrations in the Mid-South. What began nearly 50 years ago as a simple gathering has grown into a powerhouse celebration that draws over 60,000 people each year.
Friday, June 6: Big Gay Dance Party
8 PM – Midnight @ Crosstown Theater
Start your weekend strong with retro flair and queer joy at the Big Gay Dance Party, presented by the Tennessee Equality Project. Dance to throwback beats, strut your boldest look, and celebrate the movement on the dance floor and beyond.
Saturday, June 7: The Parade & Festival
11 AM – 12:30 PM: Parade @ Beale Street
11 AM – 5 PM: Festival @ Robert R. Church Park
The Pride Parade down historic Beale Street is an unforgettable explosion of color, music, and unity. Following that, the Pride Festival is an all-day event with 175+ vendors, multiple stages, drag shows, family-friendly fun, and more.
Saturday Night: Channel Pride – Silent Disco
8 PM – Midnight @ Overton Square Pavilion
Choose your vibe with Channel Pride, a silent disco featuring three DJ channels. Whether you’re into pop, retro, or underground beats, you’ll find your rhythm in the most uniquely Memphis after-party of the summer.
Sunday, June 8: Drag Brunch
11 AM
Wrap the weekend with flair at the Drag Brunch with the Grand Marshals, featuring local talent, delicious brunch fare, and the perfect mix of tasty drinks and celebration in an outdoor setting.
Pride Events & Community All Month Long
OUTMemphis: More Than Just Pride
Located in Cooper-Young, OUTMemphis is the beating heart of the LGBTQ+ community 24/7. They offer vital support, advocacy, and affirming spaces for queer Memphians, and during Pride Month, their calendar is packed with events, including some year-round offerings like their weekly drop-ins and community dinners:
- Weekly Drop-In Hours: Mon–Fri | 12–8 PM
- Sexual Health Services: Tues–Thurs | 3–8 PM
- Community Dinner: Thurs | 4–6 PM
- Queeraoke: 1st Fridays | 5–7 PM – Sing your heart out in a judgment-free zone.
- OUTMemphis Book Club: June 17 | Discuss Affirmations for Black Trans Folks by Mx. Renae M. Taylor.
- Pride Day of Service: June 20 – Free testing, care kits, and support for LGBTQ+ adults.
*All events are located at OUTMemphis Community Center, 892 S Cooper Street.
Celebrate at Local LGBTQ+ Bars & Hangouts
No Pride celebration is complete without checking out the Bluff City’s iconic LGBTQIA+ nightlife. Be sure to support these welcoming, inclusive spaces:
- Dru’s Bar: A longtime favorite for drag shows, karaoke, and a strong sense of community.
- The Pumping Station: An anchor of Midtown’s queer bar scene with themed nights and a spacious patio.
- Lamplighter Lounge: Home to weekly karaoke, high-energy drag shows, and a delectable menu of classic bar food (with some vegan-friendly options).
- Cameo: A 21+ space with drag brunches, fancy drinks, and inclusive rules like “We want everyone to feel safe and have a good time.”
Shop & Support LGBTQ-Owned and Ally Businesses
Make Pride personal by shopping with LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and local allies who uplift the community year-round:
- Underground Art: A woman-owned, inclusive tattoo shop featuring work from queer artists.
- Naturally Craft’d: An LGBTQ-owned full-service flower, candle, and soap shop.
- Novel: This local bookstore often features queer authors and hosts inclusive community events.
- Playhouse on the Square: A local theatre company with roots in the LGBTQ+ community, showcasing diverse plays and musicals with Memphis talent.
Don’t Miss: Tri-State Black Pride
June 12-15 2025
Tri-State Black Pride is a dynamic celebration centering Black LGBTQ+ voices and experiences. It offers a full weekend of culture, panels, performances, and parties, continuing Memphis’ tradition of inclusive Pride that uplifts every part of the rainbow.
