Put on your dancing shoes! Pride is right around the corner, and Nemacolin is hosting a special Pride Month event dedicated to improving the well-being of the LGBTQIA communities in the area. Learn more about the history of Pride Month and how you can play an active role in encouraging inclusivity.

History of Pride

On June 28th, 1969, riots broke out following a police raid at The Stonewall Inn, a small dive bar on Christopher Street in Greenwich Village (New York) known for being a haven for the LGBTQIA community. At the time, there existed laws that proposed a “man” or a “woman” had to be wearing clothing items and a certain number that matched the gender displayed on their state-issued ID. “Masquerade” or “cross-dressing” of any kind was not condoned.

Consequently, this led to a brutal riot that is now commonly referred to as the Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. It is commemorated as a significant time in history advocating for gay liberation — the riots birthed the concept of Pride.

Pride, an acronym for Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence, emerged on the anniversary of the Stonewall riots in 1969. New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles banded together to hold the first pride parades in the country, and thousands of LGBTQIA people gathered to commemorate Stonewall with banners and signs advocating for equal rights. 

Over the years, these parades have grown exponentially, expanding to cities across the country and globally. Although the concept of Pride has been celebrated for more than 50 years, President Bill Clinton officially proclaimed the month of June as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month in 1999. Following President Clinton’s lead, President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden have expanded this observance to include Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month.

Today, LGBTQIA Pride Month attracts millions of participants around the world with festivities including parades, parties, workshops, special concerts, and more promoting visibility and equality. Memorials are also commonly held in Pride Month to commemorate members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS.

Pride in Pennsylvania

Whether you are a resident of Pennsylvania or just visiting, there are many fun ways to celebrate Pride around the state. With special parades, picnics, drag shows, and parties, you will be spoilt for choice on where to go and what to do.

PrideFest

Residents of Pennsylvania may be familiar with PrideFest, a non-profit that hosts a three-day annual gay Pride event that takes place in Harrisburg, Central Pennsylvania. In 2018, PrideFest made significant progress for the LGBTQIA community — it became the first ever Pride event held at a U.S. State Capitol! Although the event is not held during Pride Month, you can attend this three-day celebration on the final weekend of July. 

PrideFest attendees can enjoy entertainment such as bands, drag shows, and a family zone. On Sunday, a church service is held to honor the LGBTQIA community. There are also a myriad of vendors and food options to excite and entice you. 

Pittsburgh Pride

Running across the first weekend in June, the city of Pittsburgh hosts Pride Revolution featuring free concerts, a community march, and more. Catch live music performances by local, national, and international artists and explore an array of fantastic food options. 

Be sure to watch the vibrant parade led by LGBTQIA motorcycle riders featuring drag queens and kings, a gigantic pride flag, and many amazing supporters — a must-see for families!

Pride Month 2023 at Nemacolin

Great magic awaits you at Nemacolin this Pride Month — don’t miss the opportunity to partake in the 3rd annual Nemacolin Pride on June 10, 2023, for guests over the age of 21 years. This splashy celebration will be held at The Peak from 8 pm-midnight. Doors will open at 7 pm. 

With a cash bar, lip-sync battle, and walk-off competition (and two $2,500 cash prizes up for grabs!), Nemacolin beckons you to be a part of an evening jam-packed with inclusion, love, and merriment. Make sure you pack your best and most colorful swimwear for the outdoor hot tub, pools, and fun with pool floats. Luxury cabanas and stellar service share center stage with a swanky drag show performance to keep you entertained throughout the evening. Don’t miss the walk under the gigantic pride flag released from the stage and the incredible performers as they wow you with their beats.

That’s not all! Glitter lovers: you’ve come to the right place. Put the finishing touches on your outfit with a Pride Glam Pop-up Boutique. Guests will have the opportunity to sparkle with colorful eye and lip glam, glitter extensions, colored hair braids, and more offered at the event by the Woodlands Spa and Salon.

Not sure what to expect? View a photolog of the 2022 festivities to catch a sneak peek of what’s in store for your pride.

Come celebrate, and be a part of this inclusive party event. Proceeds from the first 100 tickets go to support the Persad Center in Pittsburgh and Washington, PA — a special organization dedicated to improving the well-being of the LGBTQIA communities in the area.

Stay the Night at Nemacolin

Make Pride Month an unforgettable experience by planning a stay at Nemacolin ahead of time. Avoid the drive home after an action-packed evening, and give yourself a chance to be restored and refreshed. For overnight guests, we offer a range of luxury spa treatments including massages, facials, and body treatments at the Woodlands Spa and Salon. Be sure to also explore the many exciting experiences. To reserve your stay, please contact a Resort Reservations Specialist at 866.344.6957.