Your Guide to Pride 2026 in Winston-Salem
The city’s signature Pride event returns June 13, 2026, alongside concerts, family events, and more.
Winston-Salem’s welcoming spirit is on full display each June during Pride Month — and nowhere is that more evident than at the city’s largest LGBTQ+ celebration.
On Saturday, June 13, Pride Winston-Salem returns to downtown for its annual Pride Parade and Festival, bringing a full day of celebration to the city’s Downtown Arts District. In 2025, organizers estimated attendance at roughly 60,000 people, surpassing the previous year’s total and cementing the event as one of the largest annual gatherings in Winston-Salem — and one of North Carolina’s largest Pride celebrations.
What began more than a decade ago as a grassroots event has grown into a major regional draw, attracting visitors from across North Carolina and beyond. It also reflects the welcoming, arts-driven culture that defines modern Winston-Salem, where creativity, community and self-expression are woven into the city’s identity year-round.
Organizations like Pride Winston-Salem help foster that sense of connection year-round through performances, outreach programs and community events that extend well beyond Pride weekend.
Winston-Salem Pride Festival: At a Glance
►When – Saturday, June 13, 2026
►Time – 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
►Where – Downtown | Fourth Street (parade) + Trade Street (festival)
►Cost – Free admission
The day begins with a joyful morning parade through downtown, where floats, performers, community groups and local organizations make their way down Fourth Street to cheering crowds.
Once the morning parade wraps up, the celebration shifts to Trade Street for an all-day street festival beginning at noon that transforms the Downtown Arts District into the center of Pride Month festivities. The festival stretches far beyond a single block, creating a vibrant, walkable celebration that keeps the energy going long after the festival officially ends at 5 p.m.
- Festival-goers can spend the afternoon exploring:
- Live concerts and DJs
- Drag performances and dance parties
- Food trucks and downtown dining
- Artisan vendors and local shopping
- Community organizations and nonprofit booths
- Family-friendly activities
- Pop-up experiences and interactive activities
- Late-night celebrations across downtown
For one day each June, downtown Winston-Salem becomes one of the most vibrant places in North Carolina — and Pride is the reason why. Make plans now to be part of it on June 13.
More Pride Month Events
While the Pride Parade & Festival is the city's primary celebration, there are other events happening throughout June to celebrate Pride Month. Here are a few highlights:
Theatre: Hedwig and the Angry Inch
June 4–14
Camel City Playhouse
This acclaimed rock musical follows genderqueer performer Hedwig through a high-energy blend of live music, comedy, and cabaret-style storytelling. Thu–Sat shows at 8 p.m.; Sun at 2 p.m.
Saturday, June 6 | 1–6 p.m.
1350 Jonestown Road
This family-friendly event features vendors, food trucks, music and activities designed for all ages.
15th Annual LGBT Pride Cookout
Saturday, June 6 | 4–8 p.m.
Bolton Park
Hosted by North Star LGBTQ+ Community Center, this longtime community gathering offers free food, fellowship and family-friendly fun.
Triad Pride concert: Time After Time
Saturday, June 6 | 8 p.m.
Ardmore United Methodist Church
Presented by Triad Pride Performing Arts, this concert, titled "Time After Time: A Celebration of Love's Many Faces," features contemporary favorites and choral classics celebrating love in all its forms.
Sunday, June 21 | 6–7 p.m.
Bookmarks Bookstore
Hosted in partnership with Pride Winston-Salem, this free monthly discussion invites readers to explore queer-themed literature in a welcoming community setting.
LGBTQ-Friendly Nightlife & Gathering Spaces
While Pride Weekend brings the biggest crowds, visitors will find that Winston-Salem’s welcoming spirit extends year-round. In fact, locals will tell you that much of downtown — particularly the Arts District — is known for being inclusive and easygoing. Here are a few standout spots popular with LGBTQ+ locals, visitors and allies alike.
Fair Witness Fancy Drinks
Across from Bailey Park in the Innovation Quarter, Fair Witness is known for creative cocktails and a relaxed vibe that draws a diverse crowd before concerts, festivals and downtown events.
Hel’s Bar
Located in the heart of the Arts District, Hel’s has quickly become one of Winston-Salem’s most openly inclusive nightlife spaces. Known for its patio, themed nights and popular “Queeraoke” events, it’s become a regular stop during Pride weekend and a go-to gathering place year-round.
Little Pep
This intimate wine bar has become one of Trade Street’s favorite date-night spots. Known for natural wines, small plates and a cozy atmosphere, it’s a popular stop for visitors looking for something a little more low-key.
The Observatory
One of downtown’s newest nightlife additions, The Observatory opened in the former Euphoria space on Trade Street with a focus on craft cocktails, music and an art-forward atmosphere. It offers another welcoming late-night options
Monstercade
A few minutes south of downtown in the Washington Park area, Monstercade blends live music, arcade games, alternative programming and an eclectic crowd. It has long been known as one of Winston-Salem’s more welcoming creative spaces.
Joymongers Barrel Hall
This popular West End brewery frequently hosts inclusive community events throughout the year, including drag-themed programming during Pride Month. It’s an easygoing stop for craft beer, live music and large group hangouts.
Pride Month celebrations continue throughout the summer with additional performances, parties and community gatherings. For more LGBTQ+ events and the latest updates, explore our Visit Winston-Salem’s events calendar.
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