Pride Month 2026
Celebrating in St. Louis
Each year, the United States celebrates Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month in June. First federally recognized in 2000 by President Bill Clinton, the month honors and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.
Pride Month did not start as a government-backed celebration, but rather as a march through New York in commemoration of the Stonewall Uprising. Between 3,000-5,000 participants joined in the first march in June of 1970, now considered the first gay pride parade.
As time has progressed, Pride events have blossomed across the country, and worldwide, as more people pause to recognize and celebrate the impact of the LGBTQ+ community. Many events also memorialize those who have suffered from AIDS and homophobic violence.
LGBTQ+-owned businesses contribute $1.7 trillion to the United States economy, with an estimated 1.4 million LGBTQ+ business owners across the country (learn more). The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) is a nonprofit global advocacy organization focused on expanding economic opportunities for LGBTQ+ and allied businesses. They offer membership and certification for LGBT Business Enterprises. The St. Louis chapter, St. Louis LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce has a certified business directory and resources for LGTBQ+-owned businesses.
In St. Louis, there are numerous Pride events throughout the month of June. See below for a list of the highlights:
Events:
- Thursday, June 4
- Kick off the month at Four Hands Brewing Co from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The free community event features local bites, drinks, community awards, and the official crowning of Mr. Pride 2026.
Pride Night – St. Louis Cardinals
- Friday, June 5
- Join the LGBTQIA+ community, plus friends, family, and allies to watch the Cardinals take on the Cincinnati Reds. With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive a Pride themed Cardinals cap. Don’t miss a Pride Party in Bud Terrace before the game!
- Saturday, June 6
- The COCA Associate Board (CAB) invites you to kick off Pride Month at COCA’s Drag Bingo Fundraiser! Hosted by Fabrielle, with performances by Tiffany Skylark, Kapona, and ZeLucy Leone Fur. This event includes: 10 rounds of bingo, prizes, raffles, a costume contest, and more! Proceeds to support COCA’s mission of enriching lives and building community through the arts. This event is 21+.
St. Louis County Library Pride Fair
- Saturday, June 6
- Meet local LGBTQ+ organizations and participate in crafts and games while learning about LGBTQ+ History. In celebration of Pride Month.
All Ages. Registration recommended.
Pride Night: Trivia at Central Library
- Thursday, June 11
- Test your LGBTQ+ history knowledge at the St. Louis Public Library – Central Library starting at 6:00 PM, co-hosted with sexual health experts from Planned Parenthood Great Rivers.
- Friday, June 12
- Celebrate Pride Month at City Museum!
- Saturday, June 27 – Sunday, June 28
- 2-day festival in Downtown St. Louis.
Grand Pride Parade
- Sunday June 28
- The parade begins at 8th and Market Streets, and travels along Market Street, ending at 18th Street. The Arch serves as the backdrop to the parade. It begins at noon.