NYC Pride began in 1970 in response to the Stonewall riots, and has since established itself as an iconic event in the fight for gay rights, AIDS awareness, and the protests against violence targeting the LGBT community.
New York City’s Pride is a symbol of resistance to the oppression that the LGBT community faces. It is also a celebration of the community’s diversity. Everyone celebrates Pride in a unique way, and activities continue throughout Pride Week. It happens every year in late June and is commemorated with PrideFest, NYC Pride’s main event. Here are most of the details for this year’s edition.
NYC PrideFest 2017 Dates and Location
NYC Pride’s central event, PrideFest, takes place on June 25 this year, starting at 11 am at Hudson Street between Abingdon Square and West 14th Street. It is a continuous celebration with vendors, entertainers and activities for the entire community.
NYC PrideFest Tickets
PrideFest is free. A Pride VIP ticket option costs just $4, which includes designated stage viewing areas, dedicated restrooms, and catered food. Pride organizers encourage festival goers to make a small donation to NYC Pride. Related NYC Pride events will take place throughout the week and may have additional costs.
Pride Island
Pride Island is a 3-day (Friday-Sunday) musical festival that features a range of talented artists from renowned performers to indie bands in a collaborative celebration.
This year, Pride Island kicks off with Deborah Cox and Patti LaBelle. Saturday features Grammy-nominated duo Tegan and Sara, Gallant, and Occupy The Disco. The celebration will conclude on Sunday with electronic beats performed by DJ Scott Martin and by Chus & Ceballos, and finally close with a performance by Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter Nelly Furtado.
Pride Island ticket options range from general admission at $35 per day to VIP Entry for $65 per day to Cabana tickets that start at $700 per day. Three-day bundles are also available for purchase starting at $100, but tend to sell out quickly. Get your tickets for Pride Island now.
Pride Week Events
The city celebrates NYC Pride all week long. Here are some Pride events you won’t want to miss, from family-friendly events to VIP parties.
The Rally. Friday, June 16, 2017, 6-8 pm, Foley Square
This is where you may join community activists, politicians and supporters of LGBT rights in a politically charged rally. This tradition has been in existence since the Stonewall riots in 1969.
Family Movie Night. Tuesday, June 20, 2017, 7:30 pm, Hudson River Park, Pier 45
Families gather on the grass to catch a film. This year will be Disney’s The Lion King. Admission is free, unless you’d prefer premium seating starting at $50 per family
Pride VIP Rooftop Party. Saturday, June 24, 2017, 2-10 pm, Hudson Terrace
This is the official NYC Pride party. The multilevel, over-21 event sells out every year. DJs will spin as party goers overlook the entire city from the rooftop. Admission ranges from $45 to $75 with bottle service options available. Get your Pride VIP Rooftop Party tickets here.
Youth Pride. Saturday, June 24, 2017, 12-6 pm, 14th Street Park
Youth Pride is where young people express their support for and celebration of the LGBT community in a safe space among their peers. The event is free, but participants are encouraged to register.
The March. Sunday, June 25, 2017, starting at noon from 36th Street and 5th Avenue, continuing south on 5th.
Over 350 contingents and 80 floats will march down 5th Avenue in solidarity for LGBT rights. The NYC Pride March celebrates diversity and a call for inclusion. Grand Marshals include The ACLU, Brooke Guinan, Krishna Stone, and Geng Le. Viewing of the march is free and open to the public. Accessible seating is available at Ruth E. Wittenberg Triangle and is free, you’ll just need to register.
Getting to NYC PrideFest
- Bike: Rent a Citi Bike from various locations around the city.
- Car: If you are one of the brave souls who will be driving to NYC Pride, you’re best off reserving a parking spot ahead of time and saving yourself a headache.
- Subway: The subway is a common form of transportation in New York. Consult the MTA Subway Map to find your station and route to the parade.
Where to Stay for NYC Pride
Pride has organized partnerships with several surrounding hotels. Staying in one of these designated accommodations will mean a knowledgeable concierge who can direct you to the best way to get to Pride celebrations.
Some of the official Pride hotels are the Sheraton Tribeca and Walker Hotel Greenwich Village. Make sure to mention NYC Pride to get a discount on your stay.
Other options for your stay include the 4-star Washington Square Hotel.
Wherever you decide to stay, transport around the city is manageable with NYC’s bus and subway system.
Look for more places to stay in NYC.
