After last year’s historical turnout, Boulder Pridefest returns for its 15th year on Sunday, September 9. Out Boulder County continues its long-standing legacy of advocacy and service for our state’s LGBTQ+ and Allied communities by hosting the can’t-miss celebration at Boulder Central Park. From 11:30 am to 6:30 pm, the park will be filled with a variety of food vendors, local merchants, and live music. The festival will cap off Pride Week 2018, which offers nightly events that begin in the evening of Tuesday, September 4.
Here’s what to look forward to during Pride Week and Boulder Pridefest 2018:
To A More Perfect Union Film Screening
When: Tuesday, 9/4 from 7-8:30pm
Where: Dairy Arts Center
The inspiring feature-length documentary To A More Perfect Union tells the story of Edie Windsor’s pivotal marriage equality case against the federal government. After the death of her partner of 40 years, Windsor battled to receive federal benefits denied to same-sex couples, and won. This story spans the history of the equal rights movement and showcases a love so strong that it creates positive change even after death. When the film is complete, a discussion will round out the evening.
When: Saturday, 9/8 from 7:30-10:30pm
Where: Chautauqua Auditorium
Chances are you’ve never seen a poetry performance quite like those of Andrea Gibson. The celebrated author of seven albums and three collections of poetry returns to Boulder, where they started their career back in 1999. Funny, evocative, and truly gifted with language, this poet superstar is sure to be a highlight of the weekend. Opening for Gibson is Sam Rae — a classically trained cellist with a modern folk twist.
When: Sunday, 9/9 at 10:00am
Where: Pearl and 10th St.
The Big Gay 5K kicks off the morning of Pridefest 2018 with a revamped route that will send participants on three trips round a 1-mile loop that stretches from Pearl and 10th to Pearl and 3rd, then back around to 10th. For those who want a shorter run, this year’s event features an option to take the 1-mile loop just once. All are welcome to walk or run. Just be sure you register before ticket sales end on September 3.
When: Sunday, 9/9 at 10:30am
Where: Boulder Bandshell
Put on your brightest and most merry outfits and meet at the Boulder Bandshell for the annual LGBTQ+ Visibility March. This is a great way to show support and love for everyone in our wonderful community. Those who are a part of any LGBTQ+ affirming group are encouraged to carry banners and signs that show the pride of your organization.
Boulder Pridefest 2018 at Central Park
When: Sunday, 9/9 from 11:30am-6:30pm
Where: Boulder Central Park
After running in the Big Gay 5K and marching in the LGBTQ+ Visibility March, head on over to Central Park where the festivities really take off. There, you’ll find everything you need:
Quench your thirst and sate that appetite with a host of different food and drink vendors. Cuban Fusion, Suburban Wiener, and Em’s Ice Cream are among the many local businesses returning this year.
Shop local merchants offering everything from jewelry to apparel to beauty products, and visit the booths of Rainbow Alley and the Boulder County AIDS Project to hear about the great work local organizations are doing in support of the community.
And as you eat and drink and browse, enjoy the wide range of musical acts performing throughout the day. Onstage, you’ll find new and returning musicians, such as Marcie Smith, The New Family Recipe Band, Samba Colorado, and Hey, Lady!
Boulder Pridefest 2018 and all the events of Pride Week are vital and stellar representations of the loving, thoughtful, and joyous community we’re so lucky to have here in Boulder. From advocacy to music to fantastic food, this is a week worth celebrating.
For a complete list of details, please visit the official page of Boulder Pridefest 2018.