The InstigatorGather and celebrate pride this June (July and August). Here’s a look at some of the activities happening around Salem.
Salem Pride Parade & Block Party
The Downtown Salem Pride Parade and Block Party returns on Saturday, June 8. The Pride Parade begins at 11 a.m. and begins at the corner of State and Cottage and ends at the Block Party on State Street between Liberty and Commercial where you will find food, outdoor games, drag shows, music, arts & crafts, activities for kids, face painting and more. This free event is hosted by Salem Capital Pride. Learn more at salemcapitalpride.org/pride-parade-and-block-party/
Drag Time! with RiRi Calienté
Every third Thursday, get a head start to your weekend with Salem’s fabulous drag mother RiRi Calienté and a night of dazzling drag entertainment paired with exquisite food and signature cocktails. 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 20 (July 18 and August 15) at Infinity Room. Cost is $12 in advance; $15 at the door. Get your tickets at infinityroom.com
Pride Yoga
Take part in Pride Yoga 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 15, at CreativiTee & rofe designs, 110 Commercial St NE. The one-hour flow class is led by Catherine Albertini. Cost is $42 and includes class, a special limited-release tank top, drinks, snacks and private shopping. Space is limited. Register at yogaescape.org
Hear You Loud and Queer: An LGBTQIA+ Comedy Show
Host Ally J. Ward is joined by Mack, Lacie Wood, Ronnie Macaroni, and Joe John Sanchez III for a night of great laughs and queer joy at this Portland comedy showcase featuring the best Queer comedians in the Pacific Northwest. 7 p.m. Saturday, June 29 at Infinity Room. Cost is $15 in advance; $20 at the dooe for this 18 and older show. Get your tickets at infinityroom.com
The Art of Drag
See The Art of Drag July 5 through August 25 at Salem Art Association’s Bush Barn Art Center. Co-curated by Jessica Rehfield-Griffith and lead consultant RiRi Calienté of the House of Calienté, this exhibit shares the art, humor and making that goes into the production of drag with wigs, costumes, informational displays, timelines of drag history and featured performers and organizations that support and celebrate drag across the Willamette Valley.
There will be a Drag Art Soirée from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 12 and Conversations With A Drag Queen: Special Performances with Q&A, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 26 featuring Henny; August 9 featuring Olivia Obscene; and August 23 featuring Kimberly Michelle Westwood. salemart.org
LGBTQIA+ Ceramic Exhibit
Salem on the Edge will feature “Looking From the Inside Out,” a LGBTQIA+ ceramic wood-fire exhibit July 3 through 27. And during the First Friday Art Walk on July 5, you can meet the artists and enjoy food & wine provided by Queer Cat. salemontheedge.com
Save the Date —
Salem Capital Pride’s annual Pride in the Park, our celebration is happening September 21 at the Gerry Frank Rotary Amphitheater in Riverfront Park, where there will be an art show; booths with local vendors, non-profits, and activities across the meadow. Watch for info at salemcapitalpride.org/pride
