PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TOWER GROVE PRIDE
This weekend, Tower Grove Park plays host to Tower Grove Pride, the neighborhood-focused LGBTQ+ celebration, which is bigger than previous years but still true to its roots.
“It’s everything we’ve always had but more, more, more!” says Angelo Olegna, one of Tower Grove Pride’s co-founders. “And two days, so it’s now double the fun.”
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TOWER GROVE PRIDE
The Festivities
Three stages and more than 30 entertainers will keep the atmosphere festive. “The legendary Maven Lee will be doing a full ball that will happen at the Stupp Center amphitheater,” co-founder Michael Powers says. “It’s become a beloved place for drag performances.”
New this year: a New Orleans–style parade from the folks behind the beloved People’s Joy Parade. It will start at the former site of the statue by the east entrance to the park. Watch the music and revelry proceed through the festival grounds, or join in.
If it’s the catwalk you crave, the festival has you covered there, too. City Museum will bring clothes to dress up, strut your stuff, and take photos.
“There’s going to be lot of unexpected stuff and stuff that’s familiar,” Powers says. “The roller rink was such a huge hit last year, we’re bringing it back.” Visitors can bring their own wheels or rent onsite.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TOWER GROVE PRIDE
The Booths
More than 300 booths will be on hand—about half occupied by artists, crafters, and local businesses, as well as another half by nonprofits.
Craft Alliance will have artsy activities. Good Dog Enrichment and Training will be at the festival, and pets are welcome. Team Saint Louis, the LGBTQ+ sports and social league, will be there. Employment Connection representatives will be looking to connect folks with employers as well.
Rainbow slushies are also back, along with local beer purveyors, such as Schlafly and 4 Hands Brewery. (4 Hands will have City Wide Pride cans available, with proceeds benefitting the Human Rights Campaign.)
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TOWER GROVE PRIDE
The Background
The humble South Grand block party that started in 2012 has grown a lot—it’s the third year for Tower Grove Pride in Tower Grove Park. But the festival stays true to its local, grassroots beginnings.
“There’s always going to be a DIY feel to this event,” Powers says. “We’re very selective of who we work with, and we keep the vendor fees low and accessible. It’s a platform for everyone who's aspiring for something more, to find a purpose and engage with the LGBTQ community.”
Visit the Facebook event page for more details. Tower Grove Pride runs from 11 a.m.–6 p.m. September 24 and 25.
