Montclair Pride welcomes Dominique Jackson to the main stage June 14

Out Montclair proudly announces the program and line-up of this year’s Montclair Pride Festival, presented by the Audi Tristate Dealers, on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 12-6 PM. The festival will transform downtown Montclair into what organizers call a powerful celebration of LGBTQ life, love, visibility, and joy. With more than 30,000 attendees expected from across New Jersey and the tri-state area, Montclair Pride has become one of the region’s most anticipated Pride events.

Special Guest Host: Dominique Jackson

Acclaimed actress, model, author, and trans advocate Dominique Jackson will join the festival as special guest host for a featured 90-minute appearance on the Main Stage. Known for her groundbreaking role as Elektra in FX’s POSE and appearances in American Horror Stories and American Gods, Jackson’s presence brings star power, visibility, and community inspiration.

Headliner: La Diva Ciccone

La Diva Ciccone, internationally celebrated performer and founder of the annual Madonna Worship Night in NYC, will headline the festival with two electrifying Madonna tribute performances. These will include a recreation of the legendary 1990 MTV Awards ‘Vogue’ performance, celebrating queer legacy, ballroom culture, and unapologetic authenticity.

Main Stage – Lackawanna Plaza & Bloomfield Avenue listed events:

The Main Stage hosted by New Jersey icons Harmonica Sunbeam and Eddie Nicholas, located at the corner of Lackawanna Plaza and Bloomfield Avenue, will feature a dynamic lineup of performances. They include: Dominique Jackson (Special Guest Host), La Diva Ciccone (Headliner), Kris Cherry (Singer and Performer), the NJ Gay Men’s Chorus and the School of Rock Montclair House Band.

Later, join the Rocky Horror Picture Show performance by The Ordinary Kids, Amanda Is Tall (Singer), Hades Nuttzz (Performer), Isabel Cruz (Spoken Word Poet), NAIM (Singer/Justice Advocate), Justice LaBrave w/guitarist (Singer Songwriter), Dane (from the TV Show The Voice), Tiger James (Singer Songwriter), Mimi Sashimi (Drag Performer), and Drums of Thunder.

Also on stage will be the cast of Hair performed by the cast of the Vanguard Theater, Pride Choir, DJ Vito Fun – Dance Party and many guest emcees throughout the afternoon.

Wellmont Plaza Stage events:

Presented by The School of Rock Montclair, the Wellmont Plaza Stage showcases vibrant daytime programming hosted by Lady Keyante (drag queen) and Austin Halls (disabled musician). This stage features local talent, headlined by all female band She’s All That, and musical showcases, fashion, and inclusive storytelling for all ages.

Open Call Stage – Church Street & Bloomfield Avenue

The Open Call Stage hosted by Donna Vee (Comedian) and Chauncey Dandridge (Stonewall Inn) features emerging LGBTQ voices and community talent. With performances from queer teens, acoustic sets, spoken word artists, and independent musicians, this space amplifies grassroots expression and offers a dynamic platform for new voices.

There is also a Family Zone with interactive programming that is centrally located within the festival footprint. The Family Zone offers inclusive activities and kid-friendly fun for families and allies. Programming includes Drag Story Time, Face painting, crafts, and games plus LGBTQ book giveaways and a sensory-safe space. And there is an Audi Painted Car Activity where you can help decorate a real Audi vehicle as a collaborative art experience.

Montclair Pride 2025 will host over 200 vendors, food trucks, small businesses, and community organizations. Plus guests will enjoy a wide range of pride merchandise, crafts, apparel, local food, and refreshments. Beer and beverage gardens will be located throughout the festival footprint. Montclair Pride 2025 footprint will close Bloomfield Avenue from Midland Ave to Grove St. Park Street will be closed from Claremont Ave to Bloomfield Ave. Partial closures include S Park St, S Fullerton, N Fullerton, Glenridge Ave, N Willow Street and S Willow Street. Closures begin Saturday, June 14 at 12:00 AM and reopen Saturday, June 14 at 11:30 PM.

Public parking is available at:
– Lackawanna Plaza Garage
– Fullerton Deck
– Valley Road Deck
– Montclair Art Museum Lot (overflow)

Early arrival is recommended.

Visit outmontclair.org/MontclairPride for full programming, maps, accessibility resources, and volunteer sign-ups. Follow @OutMontclair on Instagram and Facebook for performer updates and live event coverage.

This years mantra is “Be You. Be Heard.”