One of America’s largest celebrations of Black LGBTQ+ culture, community and empowerment is back and bigger than ever for America 250. Philly Black Pride proudly announces its 27th Anniversary, now extended for an entire week, from April 20 to April 26, 2026. This year’s theme is “250 Reasons to Celebrate Black LGBTQ+ Changemakers” honoring individuals in the Greater Philadelphia Region who shape culture, advocacy and community across generations.
Activities include a mix of no charge community events, educational workshops, networking opportunities, nightlife parties, live performances and ticketed experiences. This year’s line-up includes a special Philly Black Pride Flag Raising at City Hall, Live Podcast Taping “The Road to Pride” featuring Hung Up & Keepin’ It a Bean Podcasts, Chocolate Social Mixer, Queerly Beloved Open Mic Night, Philly Black Pride Youth Party, Philly 250: Opening Reception, new Liberty Love & Black Philly Pride Run, Rooted Wellness: Sweat, Breathe, Release, Allied Gaymer Force Tournament, Thrive Black LGBTQ+ Empowerment Summit, Philly Black Pride Block Party, and many other events during the week. Events will take place across Philadelphia, with the Warwick Rittenhouse Hotel serving as the official host hotel for the 2026 Pride season. For the full schedule of events and details, visit phillyblackpride.org and follow on social media at @phillyblkpride. Presented with support from Philly Black Pride sponsors ViiV Healthcare, Solace Pharmacy, Bavarian Nordic Inc., Jackd App, Avita Pharmacy, Philadelphia Fight, Bebashi, Human Rights Campaign Foundation, Philly Aids Thrift and Visit Philly.
“Philly Black Pride is more than a celebration, it’s a movement rooted in legacy, resistance, and radical joy,” said Philly Black Pride President Jacen Bowman. “As we step into our 27th year, we are honoring 250 Black LGBTQ+ Changemakers who are shaping our future in real time. This is about visibility, yes, but it’s also about power, ownership, and making sure our stories are told by us, for us.”
He continued, “For decades, our community has created a space where there was none, building culture, sustaining one another, and pushing forward in the face of systemic barriers. Philly Black Pride stands on that foundation. This year, we are not only celebrating individuals, but the collective force of Black LGBTQ+ brilliance that continues to transform our city and beyond.”
“We are reclaiming narrative, amplifying voices that have too often been overlooked, and reminding the world that our presence is not optional, it is essential. From the ballroom to the boardroom, from grassroots organizing to creative expression, these changemakers represent the heartbeat of our movement. This moment is about honoring where we come from, uplifting who we are, and boldly declaring where we’re going. Because when we center ourselves, when we tell our own stories, and when we move together we don’t just show up… we rise.” He concluded, “At a time when our communities are navigating both progress and pushback, Philly Black Pride remains a space of affirmation and liberation. From wellness to nightlife, from policy to culture, this week is about reminding our people that we are worthy, we are brilliant, and we are unstoppable.”
Born from the legacy of the Colours Organization, Philly Black Pride has spent nearly three decades uplifting LGBTQ+ people of color creating spaces where culture, identity, and community intersect. Each year, Philly Black Pride brings thousands of attendees, leaders, artists, creatives and advocates together in Philadelphia from around the country for a transformative, multi-day experience rooted in celebration, visibility, wellness and liberation.
Now entering its 27th year, the celebration continues to serve as a cornerstone of Black Pride culture nationally, offering a platform for connection, healing, economic empowerment, and joy.
As a special tie-in with America 250 and Philly 250th, Philly Black Pride 2026 aligns with a historic year for Philadelphia, as the city prepares for national attention around the United States’ 250th anniversary. As visitors from across the country and globe arrive, Philly Black Pride stands as a powerful reflection of the city’s Black queer leadership, culture and impact.
Philly Black Pride 2026 will feature a dynamic week of programming designed to reflect the full spectrum of Black queer life and experience:
* Opening Reception & 250 Black Changemakers Celebration
* Daily “250 Black Changemakers” Campaign Activations
* Chocolate Social: 250 Reasons to Network (April 22)
* Wellness Experiences & Rooted Healing Programming
* Workshops, Panels & Community Conversations
* Live Performances, Cultural Showcases & Storytelling
* Signature Nightlife Experiences Across the City
* Vendor Marketplace Supporting Black LGBTQ+ Businesses
Events will take place across Philadelphia, with the Warwick Hotel serving as the official host hotel for the 2026 Pride season.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Philly Black Pride: Flag Raising
Monday, April 20th
Starts 2:00pm
Philadelphia City Hall, 1400 JKF Blvd.
No charge
This is more than a ceremony, it’s a declaration: In Love We Rise. Come stand with us, be seen, and celebrate the legacy and future of our community. Featuring powerful voices and dynamic leadership, including Damona Dixon (@dontcallmewhitegirl), and Philadelphia City Council At-Large Members Isaiah Thomas, Rue Landau and Kendra Brooks as featured speakers.
Hung Up Podcast & Keepin’ It a Bean: The Road to Pride
Monday, April 20th
6:30pm to 8:00pm
Philly CAM, 699 Rainstead Street
No charge
Posh dot vip/e/were-hung-up-keepin-it-a-bean?
We’re keepin’ it a bean. Hung Up Podcast and Keepin’ It a Bean Podcast are joining forces with Philly Black Pride for a special LIVE conversation: The Road to Pride. This live recording will revisit the history of the first Pride in Philadelphia through storytelling, reflection, and real conversation about the movement, the community and the road that brought us here.
Chocolate Social 250
Wednesday, April 22nd
5:00pm to 9:00pm
The Little Gay Pub, 102 S. 13th Street
No charge
Posh dot vip/e/chocolate-social-250-reason-to-network
Philly Black Pride is bringing the community together for our Chocolate Social – where culture, connection and Black excellence meet. This isn’t just networking… this is intentional community building. From changemakers to creatives, leaders to lovers of the culture — everybody in the room has a story, a purpose, and a reason to connect. Come find your people. Come celebrate our community. Come be in the room where it happens.
Queerly Beloved: Open Mic Night
Thursday, April 23rd
9:00pm to Midnight
Two Locals Brewing
No charge
posh dot vip/e/queerly-belovedopen-mic-and-showcase
Queerly beloved, we are gathered here today to share our special guest performer. ARIEL J. is a Black queer singer-songwriter and neo-soul artist from Mississippi known for blending R&B, poetry, and soulful storytelling into deeply personal music. Raised in the church, she began singing and playing instruments at a young age before transitioning into creating her own sound rooted in honesty, identity, and self-acceptance. Pull up, show out, and be in the room where culture, music, and community collide. This is more than a party… It’s the start of something unforgettable.
Philly Black Pride Youth Party
Friday, April 24th
3:00pm to 7:00pm
255 S. 16th Street
No charge
The future is bright and it’s Black, queer, and powerful. Join us for the Philly Black Pride Youth Party, a space created especially for young people to celebrate who they are, build community, and have fun together. From games and prizes to music, laughter, and connection, this event is all about making sure our youth know they are seen, supported, and celebrated. Runs Ages 14–23. Because Pride isn’t just about today-it’s about uplifting the next generation as they rise.
Philly Black Pride 250: Opening Reception
Friday, April 24th
6:00pm to 10:00pm
The Warwick Hotel
No Charge
Join us for the Philly Black Pride Opening Reception, an unforgettable evening honoring 250 Black changemakers who are shaping our communities, leading with purpose, and driving meaningful impact across generations.
This dynamic celebration will bring together leaders, creatives, advocates, and visionaries for a powerful night of connection, culture, and recognition. Featuring special remarks from Madame Joanna McClinton, Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, the evening will highlight the importance of visibility, leadership, and collective progress in this moment.
Guests can expect inspiring storytelling, vibrant energy, and a room filled with excellence. Together, we will honor legacy, celebrate impact, and amplify the voices that continue to move our culture forward and inspire what’s next.
Guests will experience inspiring moments, vibrant energy, and powerful storytelling that reflect the strength and brilliance of our community. Together, we will celebrate excellence, honor legacy, and amplify the voices that continue to push culture forward and inspire the future.
Liberty, Love and Black Philly Pride Run
Saturday, April 25, 2026
2400 Market Street
8:00am to 1:00pm
$25 registration fee
runsignup dot com/Race/PA/Philadelphia/PhillyBlackPrideFunRun
Join us for the Philly Black Pride Run, a joyful community run celebrating Philadelphia’s vibrant Black LGBTQ+ community! This exciting event brings together runners, walkers, friends, and allies to honor Philadelphia Black Pride while promoting health, wellness, and unity.
Proceeds from the run benefit the Michael Hinson Mission Grants, which support programs that uplift and empower members of the Black LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re running for fitness, fellowship, or a great cause, this is a wonderful way to move your body, celebrate Pride, and give back. Come out, bring your friends, and help us celebrate our community living with Pride, Joy, and Good Health. Lace up, show up, and run with Pride!
Rooted Wellness: Sweat. Breathe. Release.
Saturday April 25, 2026
814 Spring Garden Street
10:00am to 2:00pm
No charge
posh dot vip/e/rooted-wellness
Get physical with our instructor led yoga and sports activities to warm-up and strengthen your body. Join a guided healing circle with a licensed-clinician to release any tension and stress within your body and mind. Relax and release with a sound bath and breathe work to soothe your soul and release any remaining tension.
Gaymer Force Tournament
Saturday, April 25, 2026
401 N. Broad Street
1:00pm to 5:00pm
No charge
posh dot vip/e/gaymer-force-tournament
Level up with us! Philly Black Pride is hosting our first Video Game tournament! Where gaming meets community, this tournament is a safe, affirming space to compete, connect, and show your skills. Come as you are, play your hardest, and celebrate the joy of gaming together. Players of all skill levels are welcome to show out, learn, and celebrate gaming culture together. Come play, spectate, and be part of a space where everyone belongs. Philly Black Pride intends to host an engaging, community-centered video game tournament featuring Mortal Kombat and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
1:00pm to 1:45pm: On-site registration
2:00pm to 3:00pm: First tournament session
3:00pm to 3:30pm: Intermission
3:30pm to 4:30pm: Second tournament session
5:00pm: Event concludes
Thrive Black LGBTQ+ Empowerment Summit
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Bebashi Transition to Hope, 4101 Woodland Avenue
11:00am to 3:00pm
No charge
posh dot vip/e/thrive-black-lgbtq-empowerment-summit
The conversation continues. The power deepens. Join us for the 2nd Annual Thrive: Black LGBTQ+ Empowerment Summit, a dynamic gathering centering community, conversation, and culture. The summit brings together activists, influencers, and community members for panels on critical issues shaping Black LGBTQ+ lives.
Featured speakers include:
Malcolm Kenyatta – Pennsylvania State Representative for the 181st Legislative District and a nationally recognized advocate for economic justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and equitable policy reform.
Tito Valdés – LGBTQ+ community advocate and civic engagement leader dedicated to advancing political participation and equity for marginalized communities.
Angela Giampolo – Award-winning civil rights attorney and founder of a national LGBTQ+ legal network, focused on providing inclusive, affirming legal services.
Dr. Alfia – Respected community leader and advocate whose work centers on advancing health equity, education, and empowerment within underserved communities.
Milan Garçon – Ballroom leader, creative, and cultural influencer known for shaping nightlife, fashion, and community spaces within Black LGBTQ+ culture.
Additional speakers to be announced.
Philly Black Pride Block Party
Sunday, April 26, 2026
3:00pm start
Woody’s
No charge
PHILLY, we outside. The streets are calling and we’re bringing the energy ALL the way back to where it belongs – 13th Street! Join us for the no charge Block Party during Philly Black Pride weekend as we celebrate culture, community, and 35 years of legacy.
Good vibes. Good people. Real music by DJ Sedrick. This is more than a party… this is US.
S. 13th Street (Walnut & Chancellor)\
Sunday, April 26th | 3PM
Pull up, bring ya crew, and let’s make history again
NIGHTLIFE OPTIONS
Soft Life Weekend – Friday, April 24th TBD
In Those Jeans: Denim and R&B – Friday, April 24th – 430 South Street
Curfew – Friday, April 24th – Broad Hall
Day Party Energy Only – Saturday, April 25th – Woodys
The Release – Saturday, April 25th – Pulse Nightclub
Philly No Face No Case – Saturday, April 25th – Warehouse on Watts
The Reset – Sunday, April 26th – His and Hers Restaurant
ABOUT PHILLY BLACK PRIDE
Philadelphia Black Pride (d.b.a. Philadelphia Black Gay Pride, or PBGP) was founded by the COLOURS Organization, the only LGBTQ health services provider in Philadelphia specifically focused on serving people of color. Established in August 1999, COLOURS initially hosted the Philly Black Pride and Penn Relays festival, which quickly became a significant cultural event for the community. The partnership between COLOURS and the festival continued until PBGP achieved its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in April 2004. This milestone allowed the organization to expand its programming beyond the festival, offering year-round support and services for the LGBTQ people of color in the Philadelphia area.
Since its founding, Philadelphia Black Pride has been a proud member of the Center for Black Equity (formerly known as the Federation of Black Prides), a national organization that advocates for the health and wellness of Black LGBTQ communities. In November 2013, PBGP formalized its relationship with the Center for Black Equity, becoming one of its key programs. This partnership has been instrumental in providing enhanced resources, support, and visibility for the organization’s year-round initiatives and its signature festival held during the University of Pennsylvania’s annual Penn Relays Carnival.
Today, Philadelphia Black Pride continues to be a vital force in advancing the cultural, social, and health needs of LGBTQ people of color in Philadelphia and beyond, fostering community engagement, empowerment, and visibility through its wide-ranging programs and events.