Pride Month is a time to celebrate love and acceptance for all people. In June, Pride Month in Des Moines kicks off with big, bold, and beautiful events that bring together members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies to continue pushing for equality. One of these events is the annual PrideFest, which will be held June 9th-11th, 2023 in Des Moines’ historic East Village, marking its 44th anniversary.
You can show your support for the LGBTQ+ community this Pride Month at family-friendly events happening around the Des Moines metro. While some celebrations are for grown-ups only, Pride Month is brimming with happenings appropriate for kids. From taking in a baseball game to a pet parade to the kids and family zone during Pride Fest there are plenty of activities where you can proudly show your kids what Pride is all about.
To find even more events and activities happening in Des Moines this summer, check out our Summer Fun Guide and sign up for Weekend Fun Guide.
Here’s where you can celebrate Pride Month in Des Moines:
May 30, 2023 – Rolling Into Pride Skate Party
To kick off Pride month, join LGBTQ parents, families, kiddos, and allies for a roller skating party! Central Iowa’s queer community organizations are coming together to bring you this fun, family-friendly event at Skateland. The event is free but registration is required.
June 1, 2023 – Pride Walk
People coming together in love and friendship to celebrate how far LGBTQ+ rights have come and recognize the work that still needs to be done is at the heart of Pride.
June 2, 2023 – Iowa Cubs Pride Night
Join Capital City Pride (CCP) as the featured guest for a fun evening at the ballpark. CCP and the LGBTQ+ community will be celebrated throughout the evening in various ways from the progressive rainbow flags flying high to throwing out the first pitch. There will be a free tailgating party before the game in the parking lot and be sure to stay after the game for the Friday night Fireworks show!
June 9-11, 2023 – Pride Fest Weekend
Multiple events will be taking place throughout the weekend, with the main festival located in the East Village. A few highlights of the weekend include the Silent Disco on Friday; Fun Run, Pet Parade, and Teen Zone on Saturday and the Pride Parade on Sunday.
June 17, 2023 – Menace Pride Night
Join the Des Moines Menace for Menace Pride Night, a family-friendly event featuring fun activities for all ages. Show your pride and cheer on the team alongside the LGBTQ+ community.
June 20, 2023 – Clive Public Library Pride 2023 Celebration
Celebrate Pride with the Clive Public Library in the community room. This is a drop-in event for all ages. Enjoy rainbow-themed snacks and crafts and create a Pride button. Let’s get together and celebrate LGBTQIA+ people and their allies.
June 24, 2023 – Ankeny Pride
Attend the Second Annual Ankeny Pride Event! Start the day with a Rainbow Run followed by the Pride Pet Parade. In the afternoon, enjoy free entertainment, food, and vendors. Take advantage of exclusive discounts from Ankeny Uptown partners.
Kid Friendly Pride Events Hosted by the Des Moines Public Library
The Des Moines Public Library and it’s branches will be hosting a number of events and activities focused on Pride Month and LGBTQ+ issues throughout June. Registration is required for some of the events.
June 1-16, 2023/ All Branches – DIY Mini Pride Parade Float
June 5-17/ South Side Library – Pride Month Scavenger Hunt
June 5, 2023/ Franklin Avenue Library – Tie Dye w/ Pride
June 9, 2023/Central Library – Pride Dance Party
June 14, 2023/Forest Avenue Library – Show Your Pride
June 26 – July 1, 2023/Franklin Avenue Library – Pride Month Scavenger Hunt
June 28, 2023/ South Side Library – Weave Your Pride
How will you and your family be celebrating Pride Week?
