Don’t miss these family-friendly events for Pride Month
We met up with Shelly Snider, Executive Director for Indy Pride, to discuss some of her favorite events for Indianapolis’ own Indy Pride Festival 2022. We cover four of her favorites below plus our picks for even more family fun!
Watch us discuss our favorite Pride events with Indy Now/FOX59!
Shelly Snider with her partner and daughter enjoying the family friendly energy of IndyPride.
Pet Pride
This guaranteed adorable, free event is one of the highlights of Pride for Shelly. “We gather at Riverside Park with all kinds of pets: dogs, cats, ferrets, even snakes. It’s always a lot of fun.” Join Shelly and hundreds of pet lovers for music and furry (or scaly) fun in support of Indy Pride. This event also features local vendors, animal shelters, and pet-centric businesses.
Location: Riverside Park, 2420 E Riverside Dr.
When: Saturday, June 4, 12-3pm
Music Night
Savor the sounds of Indy Pride Music Night featuring the Pride of Indy Bands, Indiana’s sole LGBTQ+ instrumental ensemble. Shelly's passion for music first ignited her volunteer experience with Indy Pride: “Music night is really important to me because I helped start the Pride of Indy band. Each year music night is our Anniversary Concert.” Pride of Indy Bands featured will include their Concert Band and Jazz Band. You can pack your own picnic or purchase from food trucks at the event. BYOC (Bring your own chairs) and join the musical fun!
Location: Historic Military Park at White River State Park, 601 W New York St.
When: Wednesday, June 8, 6-9pm
Indy Pride Parade
It’s been two years since an in-person parade and festival has been held, so excitement is buzzing for one of the main events, the Pride Parade. Come out to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community. You can thank Shelly for the marching bands featured in the festival; it was her idea to bring music to the parade over 15 years ago!
Location: Mass Ave.
When: Saturday, June 11, 10am-12pm
Indy Pride Festival
Of course, Shelly would never miss the main event and neither should your fam! After the parade, head to Military Park for an all-day extravaganza featuring music and DJs, drag shows, food, shopping, and more! General Admission $7. Children 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Purchase tickets here.
Location: Historic Military Park at White River State Park, 601 W New York St.
When: Saturday, June 11, 11am-11pm
PRO TIP: Plan ahead and purchase a parking pass to park at the Gate Ten Events and Parking lot on Saturday. Shuttles are available to take you to and from the parade and festival throughout the day.
BONUS: Indy Pride Drive-In Movie Night
Join Indy Pride at local favorite Tibb’s Drive-In Theatre for a double feature of newly released movies for the whole family. Movie titles will be announced closer to the event date. There is even a snack bar on-site for your popcorn and candy needs! Tickets: Adults $11, Ages 4-12 $6, Age 3 and under free.
Location: Tibb’s Drive-In Theatre, 480 S Tibbs Ave.
When: Friday, June 17, 8-11:30pm
Even more Pride family fun: keep celebrating in July with these two events!
Free to Be Art Exhibit at the Athenaeum
The Athenaeum and Indy Pride are hosting a collaborative art exhibit, featuring 2D and 3D works from members of the local LGBTQ+ community. Check in with the Athenaeum about the special reception on July 1!
Location: The Athenaeum, 401 E Michigan St.
When: through end of July
Pride of Indy Bands’ free summer concert
For some free + family friendly outdoor entertainment, Pride of Indy’s Concert and Jazz Bands will perform at Garfield Park’s MacAllister Amphitheater as part of the Indy Parks Summer Concert Series.
Location: Garfield Park, 2432 Conservatory Drive
When: Wednesday, July 20 at 7 pm
CityMom Kailly and her son donned their best rainbow ‘fit for Pride in 2019.
Shelly stresses the importance of volunteers in helping Indy Pride come to life. “It takes over 300 volunteers to make these events happen in May and June every year.” Help support the LGBTQ+ community by volunteering for an upcoming event. (You can sign up here.)
