Capital City Pride is bringing their 3-day Pride Fest event back to Greater Des Moines from June 10 – 12. Events include a pool party, street festival, fun run, parade, and more events. The entertainment during Pride Fest includes headliners Matt and Kim and Todrick Hall. Plan out your Pride Fest weekend with their event schedule found here.
But there’s more than just the 3-day fest, Capital City Pride is celebrating the entire month of June with events. We’ve highlighted some of the must-attend events. You can find the full calendar of events here.
Pride Pageant
Get ready to meet the 2022 Ms., Mr., and MX. Capital City Pride winners! Catch who will take the crown at the Garden Restaurant and Show Lounge from 5 – 8 p.m. on Friday, June 3.
OneIowa Gala
Celebrate LGBTQ+ equality at the One Iowa Gala on Saturday, June 4 at Hy-Vee Hall. The Gala will celebrate the advancements in LGBTQ+ rights, honor those who have helped lead the way, and look ahead on how to continue the fight for equality.
Mindful Mondays
Every Monday in the month of June they will be hosting Mindful Mondays at 7:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Art Center. Take part in meditation or yoga and learn about art and architecture with the staff.
Queens in the Kitchen
Step up your game in the kitchen with live cooking instructions each Tuesday in the month of June. This will be a 15-minute episode that will provide a recipe and grocery list for you to follow along at home. Find more information about the dishes here.
Storytellers
Hear first-person stories from members of Des Moines’ LGBTQ+ community and their allies starting at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 9 at Teehee’s Comedy Club. This event is meant to unlock meaningful and memorable stories to connect people in Greater Des Moines with the LGBTQ+ community.
People Lending Library
Think of speed dating, but instead of looking for love, you’re looking to learn. That’s exactly what you’ll get at the People Lending Library on Thursday, June 16 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Public Library. Attendees will get to share and hear about personal and community experiences.
Manifestival at Juneteenth
Head out to Western Gateway Park on Saturday, June 18 for Manifestival from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Stop by and visit small businesses and local artists in the community.
The Gag Show - An Evening of Comedy
Enjoy an evening of laughter at Teehee’s Comedy Club from 7 – 9 p.m. on Thursday, June 23. It’s an LGBTQ+ lineup with a Midwestern headliner and local talent. Tickets will be $25 at the door.
Rainbow Safari
Make it a family night and head out to the Blank Park Zoo for Rainbow Safari from 5:30 – 8 p.m. on Friday, June 24. This is a chance for everyone to come together in an inclusive space and enjoy animal gazing, carousel and train riding, and fun!
Menace Pride Night
The Des Moines Menace are teaming up with Capital City Pride for the game on Saturday, June 25. They have designed jerseys for the Menace to wear during their game. You can preorder a shirt and the sales from the jerseys will be donated to Capital City Pride.
Pride Walk
Take part in the Pride Walk on Thursday, June 30. The walk will take place from 7 – 9 p.m. at the Capital Grounds Shattering Silence Statue. This is a walk where you are encouraged to be yourself and be proud of who you are.
