PRIDEChicago

Chicago House 40th Anniversary VIP Cocktail Party
2025-10-18 19:00 - 23:30 (America/Chicago) | Epiphany Center for the Performing Arts, 201 S. Ashland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60607
Save the date for the 40th Anniversary Celebration of Chicago House. Join the community in commemorating 40 years of supporting individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS through housing and connection to care. The evening will honor Chicago House’s legacy and impact while looking ahead to the work still to be done.

Network for Equality — Equality Illinois
2025-10-21 17:00 - 19:00 | Molson Coors Headquarters, 320 S Canal St, Chicago, IL, 60606
Equality Illinois announces Network for Equality—the premier LGBTQ+ networking event—on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. This signature gathering brings LGBTQ+ people and allies together to connect with top business leaders, strengthen relationships, and build community. It’s a perfect opportunity to invite colleagues, neighbors, and friends to a fun, celebratory evening benefiting Equality Illinois’ pro-LGBTQ+ civil rights work.

King Princess – The Girl Violence Tour (Chicago)
2025-11-07 20:00 - 23:00 | The Salt Shed, 1357 N Elston Ave, Chicago, 60642
Enter to win a pair of tickets to see King Princess live at The Salt Shed (Indoors) in Chicago on Friday, November 7, 2025. Doors open at 7 PM. This show is listed 17 & Over. Official Rules apply.
ENTER TO WIN (Contest closed 10/31/2025)
King Princess – The Girl Violence Tour
Emerging from Brooklyn as the bold, genre-blending voice of a new queer generation, King Princess (real name Mikaela Straus) returns with her electrifying third studio album, Girl Violence. Released September 12, 2025, the record channels heartbreak, rebellion and unapologetic identity through anthems like “RIP KP,” which the artist described as “the sexy side of girl violence.”
Now she’s hitting the road for the Girl Violence Tour, stopping in Chicago on Friday, November 7, 2025 at The Salt Shed Indoors — a dynamic live experience that blends stadium-sized anthems with queer storytelling and high-voltage performance. ￼ Be there to witness her fearless take on pop-rock, release the past and celebrate Pride year-round in unforgettable fashion.

Official Rules: No purchase or donation necessary. Open to legal U.S. residents aged 17 or older at the time of entry. Contest opens October 25, 2025 and closes at 11:59 p.m. CT on October 31, 2025. Limit one (1) entry per person. Winner will be selected at random and notified by email within 24 hours of the drawing; winner must respond within 48 hours to claim the prize. Prize: one (1) pair of concert tickets (approximate retail value varies); no cash equivalent or substitutions. PRIDEChicago is not responsible for lost, late, or corrupted entries; for lost or damaged prizes; or for any additional charges related to travel, parking, food, beverages, or other expenses associated with attendance. By entering, participants consent to the use of their name and likeness for promotional purposes without additional compensation, where permitted by law. All potential winners are subject to verification. All decisions are final and binding in all matters related to the promotion. Receiving a prize is contingent upon compliance with these Official Rules. Void where prohibited. Contest is governed by the laws of the State of Illinois and sponsored by PRIDEChicago, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Chicago, IL.

OUTspoken! LGBTQ+ Storytelling at Sidetrack
2025-12-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, Illinois, 60657
Outspoken and Sidetrack present OUTspoken LGBTQ+ Stories, a monthly storytelling event that celebrates uniquely personal stories from across the LGBTQ+ community.
Seating in Main/Cherry/North Bars begins at 6pm
Stories begin at 7pm
This month’s storytellers are: Allison Mitch, Jackson McKenzie, Alissa Castañeda, Christopher Bigelow, Elizabeth Gomez and Lou Dangelo.

World AIDS Day commemoration
2025-12-04 17:30 - 19:00 | Wrightwood 659, 659 W. Wrightwood Ave, Chicago, Illinois, 60614
Wrightwood 659 and The Joffrey Ballet proudly announce a special World AIDS Day commemoration honoring those lost to the epidemic to be held at Wrightwood 659 (659 Wrightwood Avenue) Thursday, December 4, at 5:30pm. World AIDS Day, officially December 1, is a global movement to unite people in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Since 1988, communities have stood together on World AIDS Day to show strength and solidarity against HIV stigma and to remember lives lost.
The Joffrey Ballet was deeply affected during this period, losing several remarkable artists, including Company Founder Robert Joffrey at age 59 and his protégé Edward Stierle at just 23. Following Joffrey’s passing, Stierle choreographed Lacrymosa and, while on his own deathbed, completed Empyrean. As noted in a New York Times interview, Stierle’s dance partner observed, “Where Lacrymosa was about death, Empyrean is about celebration and hope.”
This public program will feature opening remarks by Greg Cameron, Joffrey Ballet President & CEO; a screening of Empyrean and discussion; and a memorial segment inviting attendees to share reflections and memories of those lost to AIDS. Tickets for this special program are complimentary with paid admission to Wrightwood 659.
Wrightwood 659 is currently mounting The Joffrey + Ballet in the U.S., a large-scale exhibition celebrating the rich history of The Joffrey Ballet. The exhibition premiered at The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center in 2024, marking the first major retrospective of the company. Drawing from the Joffrey archive, acquired by the Jerome Robbins Dance Division in 2017 as the Library’s largest acquisition in a decade, the exhibition offers an in-depth look at the Joffrey’s contributions to ballet in the U.S. Highlights include rare film from the original performance of the groundbreaking ballet Astarte and Anna Sokolow’s Opus 65, as well as costumes, props, pointe shoes, posters, correspondence, and other ephemera from the company and the life of Robert Joffrey. The Joffrey + Ballet in the U.S. is organized by The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts and curated by Dr. Julia Foulkes with assistance from Nicole Duffy. It is presented at Wrightwood 659 by Alphawood Exhibitions.

Holly Dolly Christmas with the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus
2025-12-05 20:00 - 22:00, 2025-12-06 20:00 - 22:00, 2025-12-07 15:00 - 17:00 | Various Venues
Have a holly Dolly holiday with CGMC! Over 200 performers will light up the stage with rhinestones, twang, and high-energy dancing in a dazzling tribute to Dolly Parton. Get ready for big voices, joyful harmonies, and a heartwarming celebration that mixes holiday cheer with country sparkle.
Friday, December 5, 2025 at 8:00pm
Harris Theater for Music & Dance
Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 8:00pm
Northeastern Illinois University Auditorium
Sunday, December 7, 2025 at 3:00pm
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie

Santa Speedo Run 2025
2025-12-06 12:00 - 16:00 | Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, Illinois, 60657
Since 2011, hundreds of participants have spent a December day running through the heart of Lakeview, Chicago, clad in nothing more than Santa hats, speedos and other holiday attire. The run supports Center on Halsted, the Midwest’s most comprehensive community center dedicated to advancing community and securing the health and well-being of LGBTQ people across Chicagoland. Last year alone, the run raised over $150,000 for the Center.
Over the years, the run has raised more than $650,000 to support services and programs benefiting the LGBTQ community of Chicagoland.

Legacy & Liberation II: United in the Fight
2025-12-07 11:00 - 15:00 | Gallery Guichard, 436 E 47th St, Chicago, IL, 60653
Howard Brown Health, in partnership with Life is Work and sponsored by Gilead, will host a healing and powerful World AIDS Day brunch rooted in community, health, and purpose.
The event will feature delicious food, live entertainment, discreet HIV testing, access to PrEP, and an engaging fireside chat with leaders from Howard Brown Health, AIDS United, NAESM, and Pride in the Pews.
Fireside Chat Hosted by Rev. Don Abrams, Pride in the Pew featuring:
• Dr. Travis Gayles (Howard Brown Health)
• Carl Baloney Jr. (AIDS United)
• R. Wayne Woodson (NAESM)
Live Entertainment by:
• Otis Mack
• Amalia Black
• Victoria LePaige
• Mikey Everything
• Dakota Monroe
Space is limited, all guests must have a confirmed RSVP to attend.

LoveFest with the Chicago Black Gay Men's Caucus
2025-12-07 12:00 - 20:00 | Bassline, 2239 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60616
The Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus presents LoveFest, an invitation for the community to slow down, exhale, and recenter around pleasure. Inspired by Janet Jackson’s The Pleasure Principle, this year’s theme was created to evoke a soft, sexy, and intentional atmosphere designed specifically for the Black queer community.
LoveFest offers a full day of experiences that explore physical pleasure, sexual health, intentional cannabis use, conscious substance consumption, and curated cocktail workshops. The event underscores a powerful truth: pleasure is not a luxury — it is essential to the wellbeing of Black gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men in Chicago.

Holiday Open House at COH
2025-12-10 18:30 - 20:30 | Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, Chicago, Illinois, 60613
Center on Halsted invites guests, community members and supporters to join them for a festive evening. Take part in tours, and family activities. Enjoy caroling and toast to the end of a monumental year during this season of giving. There will be a cash bar and light snacks provided. To further support Center on Halsted’s mission, there will be a coat drive for guests to bring an item to donate at the Open House. Registration is free.

Holiday Meal and Celebration
2025-12-25 09:30 - 14:30 | Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, Chicago, Illinois, 60613
Join Center on Halsted to celebrate the holidays with a holiday meal and bingo sponsored by Jewel-Osco. Free. Open to all ages. Vegetarian and vegan meals by request.
9:30am: Coffee
11am: Doors open
12pm: Meal served
1:30pm: Bingo

New Year's Eve with the Legacy Project
2025-12-31 19:00 - 2026-01-01 02:00 | Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, Illinois, 60657
Join The Legacy Project for a spectacular New Year’s Eve 2026 Celebration at Sidetrack. A portion of the proceeds benefit the award-winning Legacy Project’s ongoing work to expand Illinois’s new LGBTQ-Inclusive Curriculum Public School Curriculum.
Tickets include Party Favors, light bites from J&L Catering from 7-9pm, Sidetrack’s Chicago Drag Showcase from 8-10pm, and a Champagne Toast at Midnight!
Doors open at 7pm with special surprises for those who join early!
Doors Open at 7p
Must be 21+ with Valid ID
Coat Check $3

Outspoken! LGBTQ+ Storytelling 1/6
2026-01-06 19:00 - 21:00 | Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, Illinois, 60657
Don’t miss OUTspoken LGBTQ+ Stories, Sidetrack’s monthly storytelling event celebrating uniquely personal stories from a cross-section of the LGBTQ+ community. OUTspoken is usually held on the first Tuesday of each month at Sidetrack.
Seating in Main/Cherry/North Bars begins at 6pm
Stories begin at 7pm
Typically there will be 6 storytellers and one intermission.

A Midwinter Mixer 50+
2026-01-31 14:00 - 17:00 | Nobody’s Darling, 1744 W Balmoral Ave, Chicago, IL, 60640
Before Sunset and Cookies & Conversations present A Midwinter Mixer, an afternoon celebrating elder community and camaraderie at Nobody’s Darling. Gather for a joyful afternoon of community and connection. The mixer is designed for the 50+ community.

Equality Illinois Gala 2026
2026-01-31 17:30 - 23:30 | Chicago Hilton, 720 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL, 60605, United States
Equality Illinois is proud to welcome community members, supporters, and allies for an unforgettable evening of solidarity, joy, and collective power.
In addition to individual tickets, a limited number of sponsorship opportunities and table reservations remain available. Leadership support at this moment is deeply meaningful and helps ensure that Equality Illinois can continue protecting and advancing LGBTQ+ rights across Illinois.
By purchasing a table, becoming a sponsor, or placing an ad in the virtual adbook, supporters send a clear and urgent message: LGBTQ+ rights are human rights, and the community stands united in the face of unprecedented challenges.
Together, we gather strong, united, and unapologetic in the ongoing fight for equality and justice.
Equality Illinois looks forward to welcoming everyone on January 31.
2026 Equality Illinois Annual Gala
Saturday, January 31, 2026 | 5:30 PM
Hilton Chicago

Lakeside Pride Pops Ensemble Winter 2026 Concert
2026-02-07 19:00 - 21:00 | Benito Juarez Community Academy, 1450 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL, 60608
“Do You Hear the People Sing?”
The Lakeside Pride Pops Ensemble opens its concert season with “Do You Hear The People Sing?” — a reflection on the power of banding together for what is right. A mass protest turns into a revolution in “Les Misérables.” “Princess Mononoke” preaches nature over industrialization. The Jedi show us the light side of the Force in the “Star Wars Trilogy”. Join us on February 7 to see what other tales are in store.
Parking: Benito Juarez has two small lots to the North and East of the building off of W 21st and S Loomis St. The entrance door is located on the west side of 1445 W Cermak Rd.

Chicago Pride Hockey and BSA Open Skate
2026-02-21 15:00 - 18:00 | Blackhawks Ice Center, 1801 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL, 60612
For more than 20 years, Chicago Pride Hockey (CPH) has made a welcoming space on the ice for LGBTQ+ folks with a passion for hockey. But for those new to Pride Hockey… This one’s for you!
Join CPH at Blackhawks Ice Center (formerly Fifth Third Arena) for a community open skate event February 21st from 2-5pm!
Skate with friends on the Blackhawk’s home turf AND raise funds for Brave Space Alliance, Chicago’s Black, trans founded LGBTQ+ center on the South Side of Chicago.
Your registration includes the cost of skate rental, but if you want to raise a little more, get yourself a raffle ticket for a chance to win a Heated Rivalry jersey or exclusive Chicago Blackhawks memorabilia!

World of Chocolate
2026-02-27 18:00 - 22:00 | Artifact Events, 4325 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL, 60613
AIDS Foundation Chicago invites you to explore delicious creations from chefs across Chicagoland at World of Chocolate. Support the HIV/AIDS community while you sample sweet treats, savory snacks, and libations featuring our main ingredient.
At this event, you can be the judge – vote for your favorite dishes alongside a panel of culinary experts and Chicago media personalities. In between bites and sips, enjoy entertainment from DJ Onwa, Haus of Paint, and donate to win prizes from our punchboard.
Gather with community for a joyful and indulgent experience that will power lifesaving HIV services across Chicagoland. Since its inception, World of Chocolate has raised over $7 million for people living with HIV.

HER: HRC Chicago Presents: 90s Dance Party
2026-03-07 19:00 - 23:00 | D.S. Tequila, 3352 N Halsted St, Chicago, Illinois, 60657
Celebrate equality, community, and unapologetic joy at HER: HRC Presents — 90s Dance Party—a throwback night honoring women and the LGBTQ+ community.
Held during International Women’s Month, this event uplifts the power, resilience, and impact of women while celebrating queer culture and chosen family.
All proceeds benefit the Human Rights Campaign, supporting the fight for full equality for all.
21+ event. Valid government-issued ID required for entry.

Human First Gala 2026: Family Reunion
2026-04-11 18:00 - 22:00 | The Geraghty, 2520 S Hoyne Ave, Chicago, Illinois, 60608, United States
Center on Halsted’s 2026 Human First Gala: Family Reunion celebrates individuals and organizations whose work has had a lasting impact on Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community and allies. This year’s theme is about celebrating the families that make up our LGBTQ+ community, including our families of origin and our families of choice.
This year, the gala will honor the Frankie Knuckles Foundation in memory of Frankie Knuckles, Windy City Times’ Tracy Baim & Owen Keehnen, and Comcast for their exceptional leadership, advocacy, and enduring contributions to our LGBTQ+ community.

Lesbian Visibility Week Happy Hour with Dorothy
2026-04-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Dorothy, 2500 West Chicago Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 60622
Celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week with the PRIDEChicago and Dorothy! We’re coming together to honor our community’s vibrant history while looking forward to the 55th Annual Chicago Pride Parade.
Come grab a drink, collect your 2026 parade button, and get your portrait taken at our “Free to Be Proud” photo pop-up.
Dorothy is 21+ and requires physical or mobile ID for all to enter.

Springfield Pridefest 2026
2026-05-16 12:00 - 22:00 | Downtown Springfield, Illinois, E Capitol Ave & S 5th St, Springfield, Illinois, 62701
Springfield Pride 2026 is back and bolder than ever. From show-stopping performances and delicious local eats to our incredible displays of talent, there’s a space for everyone to shine.
Enjoy a day of pure joy, community, and celebration.
Parade starts at 11:30 a.m. at 5th & Allen and goes North to PrideFest at 5th & Capitol.
Ribbon Cutting is at Noon.
Live entertainment from 12:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Springfield Pridefest is Free.

Community Dialogue: Stories of Pride
2026-05-27 17:30 - 19:30 | Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, Chicago, Illinois, 60613
Join PRIDEChicago for a free community dialogue about LGBTQ+ Pride and parades, marches, and protests in partnership with The LGBTQ+ Intergenerational Dialogue Project.
Held in connection with the 2026 Chicago Pride Parade, this public gathering fosters storytelling, reflection, and exchange across generations to cultivate community, connection, and pride.
The community dialogue will feature 4 storytellers from The Dialogue Project who will share key experiences with LGBTQ+ Pride Parades and the importance of being Free to be Proud! After these stories, we will break into small groups to dialogue and hear from one another.
All are welcome! RSVP to let us know you’re coming!
This free event will take place on Wednesday, May 27th, from 5:30-7:30 pm at the Hooper Leven Theater at the Center on Halsted (3rd floor).
Come early to mingle! Doors open at 5:00 pm.
(Artwork in the event banner made by participants of The LGBTQ+ Intergenerational Dialogue Project.)

Waukegan Pride Parade and Festival 2026
2026-05-30 14:00 - 21:00
Celebrate Pride at the Waukegan Pride Parade beginning at 2 p.m. at Lincoln Center. The parade will continue to Waukegan Harbor, where the celebration will continue with the Festival from 3 to 9 p.m., featuring another year of entertainment, food, vendors and celebration.

Lakeside Pride Pops Ensemble Spring Concert
2026-05-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E 60th St, Chicago, IL, 60637
Celebrate the transition into Pride Month with Chicago’s premier LGBTQ+ and ally music community as the Lakeside Pride Pops Ensemble presents its highly anticipated Spring 2026 Concert. Directed by drag sensation Manic Maxxie, the ensemble promises an evening packed with exceptional musicianship, high-energy flair, and theatrical surprises. Under the theme “What Was I Made For?”, the performance will explore identity, community, and cinematic soundscapes through a diverse repertoire of movie soundtracks, pop arrangements, and musical medleys.

Progress Pride Flag Raising in Daley Plaza
2026-06-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago, 60602
Kick off Pride Month in the very heart of downtown Chicago! Gather at Daley Plaza for the annual Progress Pride Flag Raising Ceremony, a powerful tradition celebrating unity, visibility, and the enduring fight for LGBTQ+ equality. Hosted by local elected officials, Cook County leaders, and community advocates, this event features a brief speaking program that honors the radical history of Pride, confronts ongoing national challenges to LGBTQ+ rights, and reaffirms Chicago’s commitment as a safe sanctuary for all people.
Following the remarks, watch as the Progress Pride Flag—which centers LGBTQ+ communities of color and the transgender community—is officially hoisted to fly prominently in the plaza for the entire month of June. This outdoor event is free, open to the public, and a perfect opportunity to stand together in solidarity, resistance, and joy.

Annual Logan Square Progress Pride Flag Raising
2026-06-01 12:00 - 13:00 | Logan Square, 3150 W. Logan Blvd, Chicago, IL, 60647
Kick off Pride Month with the Logan Square community at the annual Progress Pride Flag Raising ceremony! Neighbors, local leaders, and advocates will gather on Monday, June 1, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM to celebrate love, diversity, and LGBTQ+ equality. Co-hosted by 35th Ward Alderman Anthony Quezada and Cook County Commissioner Jessica Fuentes, this community-centered event features guest speakers and the official raising of the Progress Pride flag, symbolizing unity and inclusivity in the neighborhood.
The event is entirely free and open to all ages. It will take place outdoors at the heart of the neighborhood, located at 3150 W. Logan Blvd. Come show your pride, connect with your neighbors, and help launch a vibrant month of celebration and advocacy in Chicago!

Pride Night: Brokeback Mountain at Chicago Shakespeare Theater
2026-06-02 18:00 - 22:00 | Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E Grand Ave (Navy Pier), Chicago, IL, 60611
Kick off Pride Month with a powerful night of theater and community at Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s special Pride Night performance of Brokeback Mountain on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. This exclusive, one-night-only event begins at 5:30 PM with a joyful, western-themed “CAMPfire” pre-show celebration on Navy Pier, complete with community connection, country-western music, a complimentary drink, and a festive splash of camp. The evening also doubles as a high-profile benefit, with proceeds supporting the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame and its mission to honor the individuals and organizations that have shaped the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ history.
Following the reception, step into the intimacy of the Jentes Family Courtyard Theater at 7:00 PM for the highly anticipated North American premiere of Brokeback Mountain. Adapted by Ashley Robinson from Annie Proulx’s masterpiece novella, this sweeping play chronicles the irresistible, hidden 20-year love story between Ennis Del Mar (Harrison Ball) and Jack Twist (Jack Cameron Kay) starting in the insular rural landscape of 1963 Wyoming. Interwoven with a soulful, original Country Western score performed live onstage by a compelling band, this production delivers an unforgettable, deeply moving theatrical experience.
