Celebrating LGBTQ+ pride in Cleveland doesn't (and shouldn't) have to be a one-month thing. Yes, of course, we celebrate Pride here in The Land every June. In fact, Pride in the CLE is sure to reach an all-time high when the spirited march and festival makes its return Downtown on June 7. (Get all of your Pride accessories and gear at Dean Rufus House of Fun, an LGBTQ+ novelty shop in Hingetown owned by an iconic former Cleveland radio deejay.)
But for pride every day, Cleveland has options. Start your day at LGBTQ+-owned Brewella's, where coffee, crepes and collectibles beckon along with friendly "Brewistas." Later, shimmy up to Twist Social Club, grab some eats at Opal on Pearl, gather at historic Leather Stallion Saloon (one of the oldest gay bars of it's kind in the Midwest), or warm up those pipes with karaoke at Cocktails Cleveland.
Studio West 117 is a first-of-its-kind neighborhood created for and by the LGBTQ+ community of Greater Cleveland. Open to people of all ages, it’s an evolving collection of entertainment, sports and dining venues in addition to housing identity-affirming businesses and social services. Studio West 117 is also hosting this year’s official Pride in The CLE after-party at its Muze Gastropub.
The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland celebrates pride every day in Gordon Square with year-round events and opportunities for the whole fam (including craft and game nights).
Love a good drag show? Don’t miss Music Box Supper Club’s Drag show, "The Golden Gays," GlamGore’s alt-drag spectacle at Grog Shop; or the BLACK MASS punk-rock drag showcase at The 5 O’Clock Lounge.
Looking for more opportunities to explore Cleveland's LGBTQ+ community?
Check out this itinerary, created by the one and only, Queen Dusty Bucket.