On Tuesday, June 20, Ghent Pride will return in style thanks to the perseverance of event organizer Robert Roman.
Together with his husband, Claus Ihlemann, Roman has been one of the most active people in Hampton Roads lobbying politicians, businesses, and ordinary people on topics near and dear to the hearts of the LGBTQ+ community, with marriage equality top of the list of major accomplishments.
Robert Roman focused his effort this year on seeing Ghent Pride return as a community event in the paved parking lot of the Palace Shops.
“The big thing is community,” insisted Roman. “We’re going to have music, food, drag performers, singers, dancers, and vendors. You’re going to be able to bid on vases painted by local artists to promote diversity, inclusion, and love.”
One signature drink will be named after Charles Kirtland, the owner of Gershwin’s, who passed away last year.
The event will cost $13 for entry and the all proceeds — after covering the costs associated with producing the event — will benefit six local non-profit organizations.
“We will make sure that everyone can come to the table,” said Roman. “If you can’t afford that $13, we’ll say come; come anyway.”
2023 Pride Month Events Calendar
Pride Month Launch
June 1
The Bold Mariner Brewing Company
In celebration of Pride Month, Bold Mariner Brewing unveils its Mango Pride Seltzer for an all-day party from Noon to 10 PM. Pride Trivia starts at 6:30 PM.
2023 Pride Month Kick Off Party
June 3 & 4
MJ’s Tavern
Join the Tavern staff and Stonewall Sports as they kick off Pride month Tavern style. Drag queens, bands (including Red Stapler), DJs, food and drink, dunk tans and more. This year it is a 2-day event, outside activities will be from 11 AM until 8 PM both days. Lady Bunny will perform live on stage on Sunday the 4th.
Portsmouth Pride
June 3
Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion
From 11 AM to 6 PM, enjoy music, dancing, food, beverages, and a large variety of venders will be available. Walk through or stay all day, just come out and show your PRIDE.
Clyde’s Pride
June 3
Sly Clyde Ciderworks
Sly Clyde’s will do their famous tye-dying station and will release Dark Pride of the Moon Cider, full of grapes and pride with a beautiful purple color. Live music, food trucks and more from noon to 6 PM.
The I Am What I Am (IAWIA) Pride Festival
June 4
Tradition Brewing Company
The Inaugural IAWIA Pride Festival will have craft beer, food trucks, music, live entertainment, shopping and more.
Celebrate Pride
June 7
Vibrant Shore Brewing Company
Drag queens, craft beer, and more at Vibrant Shore. 5-7 PM.
Pride in the ViBe
June 11
ViBe Park
Enjoy an afternoon for camaraderie and show your Pride. Music, drinks, food, and more.
Pride Burlesque Night
June 12
Gershwin’s
Dinner and a show at Gershwin’s.
Virginia Queer Film Festival
June 14-16
Old Dominion University
This first-ever festival of film provides a first-look forum for LGBTQ+ filmmakers and lovers of movies. Come see some amazing new cinematic works. More info at vaqff.org
Phabulous Phoebus Street Festival
June 17
Downtown Phoebus
A colorful, fun street party with entertainers, food, drink and retail vendors.
Dance Like Dad Pride Party
June 17
The Wave
Sounds like disco music, New Wave and more dance party fun.
Friends of Dorothy Pride Party
June 18
The Virginia Beer Company
Food truck, drag bingo and live music while enjoying a pint of Friends of Dorothy Pride IPA. $10 from every barrel of beer sold goes to support Equality Virginia.
Ghent Pride
June 20, 6-10 pm
The Palace Shops & Station, Norfolk
Ghent Pride will be hosted by our Master of Ceremonies Mercedes Douglas and Robert Roman with performances by local Drag Legends including Sandra Lopez, Jennifer Warner, Jasleane Jade, Diana Rhoss and more. DJ Pup will be spinning music all night with special surprise appearances all night long. Live music, cocktails, food and more. Benefits LGBT Life Center, Hampton Roads Pride, the Ghent Business Association, and others.
Pride Night at The Chrysler
June 21
Chrysler Museum of Art
Get dressed up and visit some of the greatest pieces of art the region has to show.
10th Annual Pride Block Party
June 23
The NorVa
The fun, day before party like it’s 1975.
Hampton Roads Pride Fest
June 24, Noon to 8 pm
Town Point Park, Norfolk
Entertainment, music, vendors, food, drink, and activities. Plus the not-to-be-missed Boat Parade.
Pride at The Beach
June 25
Neptune Park @ The Oceanfront
A day at the beach with food, drink, and retail vendors. Plus take time to lather the suntan lotion and hit the sand.
Friends of Dorothy Drag Brunch
June 25
The Virginia Beer Company
Live music, and entertaining drag show and more while enjoying a pint of Friends of Dorothy Pride IPA. $10 from every barrel of beer sold goes to support Equality Virginia.
Pride Party
June 30
The Garage Brewery
Drag queens, craft beer, and more at Garage Brewery in Chesapeake. 4-8 PM.
