One of the South’s most inclusive and vibrant LGBTQ+ festivals returns for its fifth year as Park Circle Pride 2025 brings over 40 dynamic events to the North Charleston community June 3–8, 2025.
The milestone celebration, held across local venues in the Park Circle neighborhood, continues to serve as a powerful example of how pride, unity, and visibility can inspire meaningful connection and change.
"Park Circle Pride is such a vibrant reminder of what’s possible when joy, visibility, and community come together," said Domenico Ruggerio, Executive Director of We Are Family. "We’re honored that We Are Family continues to be a beneficiary of this inclusive celebration that uplifts LGBTQ+ young people and reflects the strength of our local queer ecosystem."
With six days of eclectic programming hosted by bars, breweries, restaurants, and community spaces, this year’s festival offers something for everyone. Attendees can expect drag shows, trivia, queer prom, poetry readings, brunches, comedy, karaoke, book fairs, film screenings, family-friendly fun, panels, pool parties, and more. Most events are free, with select ticketed offerings helping to raise funds for local LGBTQ+ organizations.
"There’s nothing quite like Park Circle Pride. It’s colorful, community-driven, and full of love – exactly what Pride should be," said Jensen Smith, Communication and Events Coordinator for Alliance For Full Acceptance (AFFA). "AFFA is thrilled to join in the fun and help create safe, affirming spaces for all. We’re especially grateful to partner with local businesses that continue to show up and support our LGBTQ+ community. That kind of allyship means everything, especially right now."
The 2025 commemorative Park Circle Pride poster, illustrated by Alexander Griffin of Gumbo Design Co., boldly reimagines the iconic 1945 photograph "Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima" with LGBTQIA+ figures lifting a Pride flag symbolizing resilience, visibility, and unity in the face of continued adversity.
"In today's divisive climate it's more important than ever for us to come together, and Park Circle Pride is just a beautiful opportunity to embrace the LGBT+ community as a neighborhood, creating a space where everyone is welcome, and safe," said Simon Cantlon, Producer of Park Circle Pride in partnership with the Park Circle Business Collective. "It's inspiring to see all the local establishments proudly opening their doors and expressing support for our community - not only in June, but throughout the year."
Proceeds from Park Circle Pride 2025 will benefit two local nonprofit organizations:
- Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA), which advocates for LGBTQ+ rights across South Carolina.
- We Are Family, which provides affirming spaces and vital resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
“At Commonhouse, we believe beer is simply the medium - community is the message. Park Circle Pride reminds us of the power we hold when we come together with our neighbors to celebrate authenticity, affirm identity, and stand up for one another," said Pearce Fleming, Proprietor of Commonhouse Aleworks and member of the Park Circle Business Collective. "For our community of businesses here in Park Circle, this is more than just a week of events; it’s a living reflection of the vibrant spirit of our neighborhood and the work we do year-round to support one another. We’re proud to raise a glass to love, inclusion, and shared humanity."
For more information on Park Circle Pride, the event schedule, sponsorship, and the beneficiaries, please visit www.parkcirclepride.com.