Last updated: October 16, 2024
Are you gearing up to throw an epic Pride Party?
Pride Month is all about celebrating love, diversity, and inclusion, so let’s get into how to make this year’s bash unforgettable.
This guide will go over:
- The best days to host and where
- Event themes
- Sending out invitations and reminders
- Drinks and snacks to serve
- Sample icebreaker questions, and more!
Why you should listen to me: My name is Nick Gray. I’ve hosted hundreds of parties all over the world. After making it a habit, I can easily host a gathering and make new friends with no sweat. New York Magazine once called me a host of “culturally significant” parties.Before the Party
Pick a Date and Venue
Start by setting the date. While Pride Month is in June, your party can happen any time that suits you. Host on Tuesday or Wednesday nights as people’s calendars are typically open then.
Hosting at home? Perfect. Your guests will value the vulnerability that comes with being invited into your home.
Looking at outside venues? Opt for places that are LGBTQ+ friendly and easily accessible for everyone.
Choose a Theme
Every fantastic party needs a theme. Go classic with a rainbow theme, or try something unique like “Drag Extravaganza,” “Pride Prom,” or “80s Queer Dance Party.”
Your theme will help guide your decorations, music, and even your dress code.
Send Out Invites and Reminders
Once you decide on the theme, get those invitations out there! Include all the important details:
- Date
- Time
- Location
- Special instructions (like dress code or if it’s a potluck)
One of the most important things you need to do before your event is send your guests reminder messages. I always send those to ensure higher attendance. We all have commitments and one might forget they opt-in for your event, so a little nudge is more useful thank you think.
PRO TIP: I’ve been using Partiful recently for my events and I’m loving it. I even wrote a whole article about it. – Read the full article here.
Decorate Like Crazy
Decorations set the vibe. Think rainbow everything – balloons, streamers, tablecloths. Don’t forget the pride flags, banners, and posters too.
Add a magical touch with fairy lights or a photo booth with fun props for those perfect Instagrammable moments.
Create a Killer Playlist
Music is the heartbeat of any party. Create a playlist with queer anthems and artists to keep the energy high all night long
Think Lady Gaga, Madonna, Queen, Lizzo, and Troye Sivan. Mix in dance hits, and maybe some karaoke tracks if your crew is into that.
During the Party
Offer Themed Food and Drinks
Set out colorful snacks like a rainbow fruit platter, cupcakes with rainbow frosting, and a candy-filled bar. For drinks, think signature cocktails (Pride Punch, anyone?) and mocktails. Make sure to cater to all dietary needs – vegan, gluten-free, etc.
Remember, don’t overthink what you’ll serve, just get what’s accessible. People came for new connections and valuable conversations, not to eat and get wasted.
PRO TIP: Check out how my friend Jules prepared for her Mocktail Party, maybe you’ll get an idea for the mocktails you can serve.
The Power of Name Tags at a Pride Party
Although name tags may seem outdated, they make a big splash at Pride celebrations.
They break the ice and foster a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels appreciated and included. Here are my tips for maximizing the use of name tags and how they foster a sense of community among your guests:
- Inclusivity: Name tags can include pronouns, helping everyone respect each other’s identities and making the space more inclusive. This small gesture goes a long way in making everyone feel seen and respected.
- Personalization: Opt-in for rainbow colored or assorted colored name tags to match the event’s vibe. You can get one from Amazon or even Target.
- Icebreaker Prompts: Add a prompt on the name tags like “Ask me about…” or “I love…” to help guests initiate conversations. For example, “Ask me about my favorite Pride event” or “I love baking.”
By incorporating name tags into your Pride party, you’re not just adding a practical element – you’re enhancing the overall experience. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure that everyone feels included, respected, and ready to mingle.
LGBTQ+ Icebreakers Questions
Icebreakers are a great way to start a conversation and ensure that everyone is at ease and participating straight away. Icebreakers may assist in removing boundaries and fostering a vibrant, welcoming environment, regardless of whether your guests are longtime acquaintances or are meeting for the first time.
I always facilitate three icebreaker questions during my parties. Start with a warm welcome and briefly explain the icebreaker activity. Your enthusiasm will be contagious and help guests feel more comfortable participating.
Here are sample icebreaker questions for your Pride party:
- What does Pride Month mean to you personally?
- Who is an LGBTQ+ icon or role model that inspires you and why?
- What’s your favorite pride flag and why?
- Can you share a memorable experience from a Pride event you’ve attended?
- What’s your favorite LGBTQ+ themed movie or TV show?
- How do you show support for the LGBTQ+ community in your daily life?
- What’s one thing you wish more people understood about the LGBTQ+ community?
- Do you have a favorite pride-themed outfit or accessory?
- What’s a significant moment in LGBTQ+ history that you find particularly inspiring?
- How do you think we can make our community more inclusive and welcoming?
Conclusion
Throwing a Pride Party means celebrating love, diversity, and community.
From picking the perfect date and venue to choosing a fun theme and planning inclusive activities, every detail counts when creating an unforgettable experience. By using name tags, facilitating icebreakers, and making sure everyone feels included, your guests will connect, feel engaged, and have a fantastic time.
Remember that the essence of Pride is about embracing and celebrating our authentic selves while honoring the journey of the LGBTQ+ community. Your party is a chance to spread joy, foster connections, and support one another in a vibrant and inclusive environment.
Here’s to a fabulous Pride! 🌈🎉
Hello, My name is Nick Gray. In my book, The 2-Hour Cocktail Party, I provide helpful guidance on how to host a great party for any event. I wrote this book to support anyone attempting to meet new people and develop closer bonds with their community.
When is your party? Send me an email and I will give you some bonus tips, including a pre-party checklist that you can print out. Plus I’ll answer any question you have, free of charge. I love talking about parties and I’m on a mission to help 500 people host their first party.
