Denver PrideFest, a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ celebrations in the Rocky Mountain region, gears up for its golden anniversary this summer. Mark your calendars for June 22nd and 23rd, 2024, as Denver prepares to commemorate five decades of unity, inclusion, and progress for the LGBTQ+ community and allies.
A Legacy of Celebrating Diversity and Equality
Denver PrideFest boasts a rich history that reflects the city’s evolving LGBTQ+ landscape. This journey began in 1974 with a small gathering in Cheesman Park, organized by members of the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire. This initial spark of pride ignited a movement, leading to the founding of The Center on Colfax in 1975.
The Center, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, continues to provide year-round programs and services for the LGBTQ+ community. In 1975, they started organizing the parade, with a festival component added in 1990. Through dedication and tireless efforts, Denver PrideFest has blossomed into the largest celebration of LGBTQ+ pride in the Rocky Mountain region.
The spirit of inclusivity and progress remains at the heart of Denver PrideFest. This year’s 50th-anniversary celebration promises a vibrant and memorable experience, honoring the past while embracing the future.
A Golden Anniversary Celebration Packed with Fun
The 50th-anniversary festivities kick off with the Pride 5K presented by Smartwool on Saturday, June 22nd. This energetic run sets the stage for the main event – the two-day Denver PrideFest at Civic Center Park.
Prepare to be dazzled by over 250 exhibitors showcasing an array of products and services. Indulge in culinary delights from 30 food vendors, and immerse yourself in captivating live performances throughout the festival.
Sunday morning bursts with color and energy as the Coors Light Pride Parade commences at 9:30 am. Spectators lining the 14-block route along Colfax Avenue will be treated to a spectacular display of colorful floats, vibrant marchers, and pulsating music, culminating at Civic Center Park where the festivities continue.
This year marks the exciting debut of the Gayborhood Market, a collaborative effort between Denver PrideFest and The Rainbow Market Denver. This new initiative aims to support local LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, craft-makers, and artisans by lowering the barrier to entry for PrideFest participation. The dedicated Gayborhood Market will be situated in Lincoln Veterans Memorial Park.
Honoring Key Figures in Denver’s LGBTQ+ History
The 2024 celebration honors some of the key figures who have shaped Denver’s LGBTQ+ landscape. These individuals played pivotal roles in advocating for equality, fostering inclusion, and creating a vibrant community.
- Christopher Sloan (he/him): Also known as the legendary Christi Layne, Sloan holds a revered position in both entertainment and activism circles. As Empress VI of the Imperial Court of the Rocky Mountain Empire, Sloan secured the first permit for the Denver Pride Parade & Festival, paving the way for generations to come.
- Phil Nash (he/him): A Denver resident since 1976, Nash’s contributions to the city’s LGBTQ+ community are undeniable. He served as the first director of The Center on Colfax and played a crucial role in establishing the Colorado AIDS Project. Look for his upcoming book, “LGBTQ Denver,” published by Arcadia Publishing in 2024, offering a perspective on Denver’s rich LGBTQ+ history.
- Rex Fuller (he/him): Currently the Chief Executive Officer at The Center on Colfax, Fuller embodies unwavering dedication to promoting inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community. His leadership has empowered countless individuals across Colorado and beyond.
- Phil Wade (he/him): Wade stands as a symbol of courage and determination. As an openly gay Denver Public School teacher at a time of significant discrimination, his participation in the historic Denver Gay Revolt at City Council on October 23rd, 1973, symbolized a powerful stand for equality.
- Jameson Johnson (they/them): Known for their captivating drag persona, Ophelia Peaches, Johnson is a force for self-expression and activism within the LGBTQ+ community. Johnson empowers others through creative performance and continues to be a vibrant figure in Denver’s LGBTQ+ scene.
