How to celebrate Pride Month in Sioux Falls

Megan Raposa -

Simplified: It is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Pride Month, as officially declared by the White House. But you don't have to go to D.C. to celebrate. Here's a look at local LGBTQ pride events from Sioux Falls Pride.

Why it matters:

  • Pride Month is recognized nationally and is traditionally held in June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York.
  • Sioux Falls Pride – a local nonprofit dedicated to broadening acceptance for the LGBTQ community – is working with several local businesses for events throughout the month, including a parade downtown on June 26.
  • Area businesses are also hosting Pride Month events in addition to those sponsored by the nonprofit, including speed dating at The Source, a special Pride drink at The Breaks and Pride Night at Escape 605 downtown.
"We are always looking to expand into new spaces and to see businesses reaching out to us about hosting events means that progress is being made," said Rachel Polan, marketing director for Sioux Falls Pride.

What else do I need to know?

Sioux Falls Pride put together a "Pride Guide" with the full month's worth of events starting with a Kickoff Show on June 11 at Club David. You'll also find regional events in the guide.

That's also got details on partnerships like that with Covert Artisan Ales. The local brewery made a pride-themed rainbow sherbet seltzer.

There are also lots of family-friendly events like Pride Night at the Sioux Falls Canaries, Drag Storytime at Coffea downtown and Pride Family Bingo at Full Circle Book Co-op.

"With the help of local business partners, we are bringing more events to Sioux Falls celebrating our diverse community," Polan said.