The Ultimate Guide to Boulder Pride 2024
When I (Lindsay here) think of Pride and what Pride means, memories of my first Pride experience come to mind. I was in the my early 20's before I ever saw a Pride event in person and it was by happenstance (or maybe fate?) that I found myself on the sidewalk on Commercial Drive in East Van watching the parade in all of its queer beauty, lots of leather, lots of banana hammocks, lots of colors and joy. That year, I was a silent, closeted observer, but the impact on me was important, "Wow, I could never walk down the street like that, open and out." Several years later, when I finally had an ounce of enough financial security and adult independence, essentially when it was safe enough to imagine myself surviving losing all my support network, my "I could never" turned into a "maybe" which turned into a, "Yep, I'm here and I'm queer and I'm not going anywhere dammit!"
Pride for me is a yearly representation of the power of visibility. There are so many beautiful ways to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, ace, intersex, 2S, and +++. When I was growing up, I lived in a small town, smaller than Boulder. We didn't even have a Burger King, but we had a Braums with the best milk shakes, especially their holiday eggnog shakes. Mmm... eggnog. Needless to say, I didn't have much representation of what LGBTQ identity could look like, and we all know, in the absence of queer representation, people were more than happy to fill the space with homophobic and transphobic opinions and religious beliefs. Looking back, I mourn not being able to be me and not being able to know my fellow teammates and classmates in all of their queer beauty. I imagine it would have been so amazing to know that I wasn't alone and know I had other people like myself trying to figure this all out too.
Usually, my partner and I attend Denver Pride Parade. I love to feel the roar of the Dyke bikes in my chest. Tears of joy and relief well up in my eyes. "I'm not alone," says my heart, feeling strength and courage standing amongst my people. In recent years though we have been finding joy attending the smaller celebrations in Colorado, feeling the importance and power of showing up and being seen in small towns and cities. Gosh, what it would have been like to have seen someone like me in my small town when I was a kid! I didn't have that representation when I was a kid, but maybe I can be that for someone else. Representation and visibility is so important outside of urban centers.
With this in mind, we wanted to highlight a neighbor community that does such important work to build community and meet community needs for LGBTQ+ folks in Boulder, Colorado, not quite a small town, but a central point serving smaller communities like Lyons, Longmont, and others.
Join us as we shine a spotlight on this year's Boulder Pride with our ultimate guide for all things Pride-related. We have spent weeks scouring the internet and have pulled together this ultimate guide for all things Boulder Pride. Some events are grassroots and only get shared just before the event. So be sure to check back as we will be adding and updating the content as it is shared. We hope this helps you find something new for your pride celebrations or maybe even a new community within the LGBTQIA+ Front Range community to connect with.
When is Boulder Pride 2024?
Date & Time: June 30th, 2024, from 11:30am to 5pm
Boulder Pride stands out as more than just a celebration; it's a vibrant testimony to the strength and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community in a small-town setting. With activities that range from educational workshops and discussions to entertainment and social gatherings, there's something for everyone. Highlights of the event include the Pride Parade, a family-friendly festival with live music, food stalls, and craft vendors that showcase the creativity of the community. Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting, Boulder Pride offers a unique opportunity to come together, support one another, and promote understanding and acceptance.
Where is Boulder Pride 2024?
Location: Boulder Central Park and Bandshell, 1212 Canyon Boulevard Boulder, CO, 80302
Kicking off at 11:30 am, Boulder's Central Park will come alive with the spirit of Pride. The Bandshell will act as the epicenter of celebrations, featuring a lineup of events designed to unite, entertain, and inspire the LGBTQ+ community and allies. From stirring speeches to captivating performances, each moment is crafted to celebrate the beauty of diversity.
Foodies, rejoice! The park will be lined with a variety of food trucks offering delicious bites to keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you're in the mood for quick snacks or hearty meals, your taste buds are sure to be delighted.
A motorcade will also weave its way through Boulder, offering a dynamic parade alternative that is a dazzling display of unity, with decorated vehicles celebrating the spectrum of pride.
7+ events at the 2024 Boulder Pride Festival you don’t want to miss
1. Pride Cabaret with Frequent Flyers Aerial Dance
Experience an enchanting celebration of love, liberation, and PRIDE! Enter a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, gravity defies its limits, and aerial dancers captivate with stunning choreography. Witness their strength, resiliency, and courage as they showcase our dedication to embracing all gender expressions. Join us for a mesmerizing event you won't want to miss!
Date & Time: Saturday, June 1st at 6pm or 8pm (choose between 2 show times)
Location: Frequent Flyers' Studio, 3022 E. Sterling Cir., #150, Boulder, CO 80301
Cost: $30 for tickets, purchase here!
Organizing Host: Frequent Flyers Aerial Dance
2. Lafayette Youth Pride
The Lafayette Youth Pride event is not just any ordinary party. It's a celebration of diversity and inclusion for the whole family. Out Boulder County's youth team has put together a fantastic event that promises to be fun for everyone. From free entertainment to tasty food and exciting activities, every member of the family is sure to find something to enjoy. Located in Courtney Way, Lafayette, CO, this pride party is not to be missed. Looking for an event that's a bit smaller than the largest pride festival in Colorado? Then check out Lafayette Youth Pride in Boulder County. There'll be something truly special about the atmosphere, so come along and join in the fun!
Date & Time: Saturday, June 15, 2024, 12-4pm
Location: Dog House Music Studios, 525 Courtney Way Lafayette, CO, 80026 United States
Cost: Free
Organizing Host: Out Boulder County
3. 50+ LGBTQ+ Mixer
Looking for a place to connect and mix it up with other LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and allies over the age of 50? Join Out Boulder County and the Boulder County Area Agency on Aging's for our annual mixer! This is the perfect opportunity for anyone in the area to search for companionship and community amongst like-minded individuals. Enjoy a night filled with great food, drinks, and stimulating conversation. Even younger partners are welcome to join in on the festivities! Don't miss out on this chance to celebrate Colorado's pride events in a safe and welcoming space. Come and join us for a night of fun and togetherness!
Date & Time: Friday, June 21, 2024, 4-7pm
Location: Equality Center of the Rocky Mountains, 3340 Mitchell Lane Boulder, CO, 80301 United States
Cost: Free, RSVP here
Organizing Host: 50+ LGBTQ+ Mixer — Out Boulder County
Accessibility Note: The event will be held on the first floor of the center, which is fully accessible to anyone with mobility challenges.
4. QTPOC Pride Summer Solstice OTA Vogue Night
Step into the world of Vogue at the Summer Solstice OTA Vogue Night festival! Come roll with us as Out Boulder County, The kiki House of Majik, and Mi Chantli Dance and Movement Sanctuary showcase their pride and joy in an unforgettable night of runway walks, fierce face offs, and exhilarating performance numbers. Get ready to strike a pose and be captured in stunning photos as you soak in the electric atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned voguer or just starting out, this all-ages event promises to be a fabulous celebration of style, self-expression, and inclusivity. So dress to impress, walk the walk, and be in with a chance of winning unique grand prizes that are sure to make you sashay away with a smile. Don't miss out on this substance-free, sober event that welcomes everyone with open arms and an invitation to dance the night away!
Date & Time: Friday, June 21, 2024, 6-11pm
Location: Mi Chantli Dance and Movement Sanctuary, 1750 30th Street Boulder, CO, 80301 United States
Cost: Free, RSVP here.
Organizing Host: Out Boulder County, The Kiki House of Majik, & Mi Chantli
Special Note: An all-ages, low-stakes Vogue Night (NOTE: After 9pm, 18+ only). Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided. This event is substance free and sober.
5. Mindful Nature Walk
A mindful and relaxing nature walk amidst the hustle and bustle of Pride Month. Come back to your center by connecting with your senses and moving your body in community. This event is part of Queer Asterisk's event series, Proud to Pause. Each event is organized to emphasize the value of slowing down and finding your center.
Date & Time: Tuesday, June 25th, 6-7pm
Location: Mount Sanitas Trailhead, Sunshine Canyon Dr., Boulder, CO 80304
Cost: Donations accepted to support queer mental health services
Organizing Host: Queer Asterisk
6. LGBTQ+ History of Boulder County with Glenda Russell
Boulder County has played a significant role in the history of LGBTQ+ rights in the United States. Whether it's through local and colorful pride events or far-reaching impacts that have changed the national picture, the contributions made by the community have been nothing short of remarkable. If you are interested in the topic, you must come and see a timeline of events and listen to amazing stories that will leave you wanting to know more. Glenda Russell, a psychologist by training and an LGBTQ+ community historian, has done extensive research about queer history in Boulder and beyond. Her insights into the laws, culture, and activism surrounding equality in the country are truly impressive.
Date & Time: Saturday, June 29, 2024, 3 - 4pm
Location: Louisville Public Library (First Floor Meeting Room), 951 Spruce Street Louisville, CO
Cost: Free, reserve your free ticket beginning 5/15/2024
Organizing Host: Louisville Public Library
7. Queer Circus
Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate Pride in 2024? Look no further than Out Boulder County's Queer Circus! This cabaret-style show features a lineup of talented local LGBTQIA+ comedians, dancers, poets, musicians, entertainers, and performing artists. You won't want to miss these live performances showcasing the creativity and talent of the LGBTQIA+ community. And for those over 21, drinks will be available for purchase. Join us at the Junkyard Social Club for Out Boulder County's wildest Pride celebration yet!
Date & Time: Saturday, June 29, 2024, 7-10:30pm (doors open at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm. )
Location: Junkyard Social Club, 2525 Frontier Ave Unit A, Boulder, CO
Cost: Tickets are $20 for purchase online.
Organizing Host: Out Boulder County
TBD Events To Watch For On Social Media
There are other wonderful events that happen each year but at the time of this article writing, the details haven't been announced. Below are some events we recommend checking out on social media for details.
Boulder Bike Nights Pride Ride
RAR Front Range
Lyons Pride March
Final thoughts
Whether you are out or not, we hope you can find queer joy this Pride month. You are beautiful just they way you are and you're not alone.
If you need support, please reach out to us to schedule an initial consultation to see if therapy is right for you! We understand the complexities of this month and that there are so many emotions that may surface. It's a lot! Please be gentle with yourself and reach out if you need support. We are here for you.
Happy Pride Y'all!
