Gay To Do: 50th LGBT anniversary
On July 4, 1965, a small group of activists gathered for the first organized LGBT civil-rights demonstrations in front of Independence Hall. This week, our city is celebrating the 50th anniversary of these peaceful protests with parties, panels, and exhibits. We have gathered the best official and unofficial happenings so you know exactly where you need to be.
On July 4, 1965, a small group of activists gathered for the first organized LGBT civil-rights demonstrations in front of Independence Hall. This week, our city is celebrating the 50th anniversary of these peaceful protests with parties, panels, and exhibits. We have gathered the best official and unofficial happenings so you know exactly where you need to be.
Tuesday
Start the patriotic week off right. Our Night Out is taking over the National Constitution Center (525 Arch St.) to help commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the "Annual Reminders" demonstrations. Attendees will have full access to the new exhibition, "Speaking Out for Equality: the Constitution, Gay Rights, & the Supreme Court." Get there early.
Begins at 6:00pm. To register.
Wednesday
Join The Welcoming Committee for a mix and mingle with Equality PA at their Get-Together on the roof deck at iCandy (254 S. 12th St.). Starting at 7:00pm, you can meet the leaders of TWC's community and find out what they are all about.
Free with RSVP here.
Thursday
The official kick off to the weekend is the 50th Anniversary Party at the National Museum of American Jewish History (101 S. Independence Mall East). Beginning at 10:00pm, guests will be able to take in sweeping views of Independence Mall while enjoying cocktails and hors d'oeuvres with LGBT leaders from all over the nation.
Tickets are $50. For tickets.
After you mix and mingle at the kick-off, head over to the Hot Mess American Summer Dance Party at Medusa Lounge (27 South 12th St.). Hosted by the boys behind NSFW, DJ Javascript spins this special edition. Stay up late getting sweaty on the dancefloor because you're probably off tomorrow.
Begins at 10:00pm. Free.
Friday
Celebrate the anniversary with a prideful playlist. Live Nation is hosting a special concert on the waterfront at the River Stage at Great Plaza - Penn's Landing (Chestnut St. and Columbus Blvd.). Hosted by Dumblonde, featured performers include Adore Delano, FANCY, Ferras, GoGo Morrow, and Jonathan Allen from America's Got Talent.
Doors open at 4:00pm. Show at 5:00pm. Tickets are $19.65. For tickets.
Saturday
Before the official 50th Anniversary Ceremony, enjoy a celebratory lunch in the Liberty View Ballroom at the Independence Visitor's Center (1 North Independence Mall West). Judy Shepard and Edie Windsor will receive the 20th Annual International Role Model Award.
Tickets are $250. For tickets.
In front of Independence Hall, the National LGBT 50th Anniversary Ceremony is the centerpiece to the weekend's celebrations. This not-to-be-missed festivity will feature comedian Wanda Sykes as the Master of Ceremonies with special performances by New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia Gay Men's Choruses.
Begins at 2:15pm. Free.
Sunday
The Mazzoni Center will present the city's first-ever Pride celebration for young people at the William Community Center (1315 Spruce Street) at 11:00am. Aimed at young people under the age of 24, this alcohol-free event will be a daylong celebration for LGBTQ youth and their allies. The day will include workshops, live music, drag performances, interactive activities, food, giveaways, and more.
Free.
Philly Pride Presents will host a special "Annual Reminders" Street Party throughout the Gayborhood. Beginning at noon, the party promises to be similar to Outfest with something for everyone. Tabu Sports Bar and Lounge will be hosting an outdoor dance party on 12th Street with DJ Chris Urban. There will also be a special dedication of the new rainbow crosswalks at 13th and Locust Streets at 1:00pm.
Free.