Celebrating Pride Month in Puerto Rico!
(Photo by Alejandro Granadillo/NurPhoto)
Every June, the island comes alive with vibrant colors, joyous festivities, and a strong sense of community. Pride Month in Puerto Rico is a marvelous time when locals and visitors come together to honor and support the LGBTQ+ community.
The modern LGBTQ+ rights movement in Puerto Rico gained momentum during the 1980s when organizations such as Puerto Rico Colectivo Gay (later renamed Puerto Rico Para Tod@s) were formed to advocate for equality and fight discrimination. In 2003, Puerto Rico became the first U.S. territory to pass a law criminalizing hate crimes based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
In July 2015, Puerto Rico embraced the legalization of same-sex marriage following the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges. This progressive step not only makes Puerto Rico a destination to celebrate love but also an extraordinary choice for LGBTQ+ weddings.
Here are some of the biggest celebrations, parades, and activities for Pride Month in Puerto Rico:
San Juan Pride Parade: Kicking off the Pride Month festivities, the San Juan Pride Parade typically takes place on the first Saturday of June. The capital city’s streets come alive with energy as colorful floats, extravagant costumes, and passionate marchers fill the streets of Condado. Enjoy live performances, musical acts, and inspiring speeches showcasing Puerto Rico’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights.
Boquerón Pride: Held on the second weekend of June, Boquerón Pride in Cabo Rojo is even grander — than the one in San Juan. Find out for yourself by jumping right into the weekend-long celebration featuring dance parties, drag shows, and live music.
Rincón Pride Festival: Discover the beauty of Rincón, a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches and surfing culture. During this week-long event in mid-June, immerse yourself in a blend of natural wonders and spirited LGBTQ+ celebrations. Enjoy beach parties, live music, art exhibitions, and educational workshops while embracing the spirit of inclusivity.
Ponce Rainbow Festival: Located on the southern coast of Puerto Rico, the city of Ponce hosts the annual Ponce Rainbow Festival during Pride Month. This three-day extravaganza celebrates diversity through a series of events and activities. Experience a cheerful parade, captivating performances, cultural showcases, and a lively street fair offering local cuisine, art, and crafts.
All Out 5K: To support the LGBTQ+ community, participate in the All Out 5K, an annual event in San Juan benefiting the True Self Foundation. The True Self Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting a more just and inclusive society for communities of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity in Puerto Rico. Donate to this worthy cause at www.trueselffoundation.org/en/donar/.
At Spoon, we are proud allies of the LGBTQ+ community. Join us for one of our tours, where we offer customized experiences tailored to your preferences. With the support of our in-house and incredible team, we can craft a series of truly unforgettable events and wedding activities, as well as coordinate weddings, ensuring your special day is unforgettable. This year, we are excited to partner with IGLTA as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary in Puerto Rico.
For gay-friendly lodging options, we recommend our friends at Dreamer’s Welcome. Stephan Watts & Roy Delgado, the owners, have curated the most beautiful spaces throughout Puerto Rico, ensuring your stay is both comfortable and welcoming. Explore their offerings at www.dreamerswelcome.com/puertorico