Things to Do in Portland, Maine During Pride Month
Portland, Maine has a vibrant and welcoming queer community that is integrated into the fabric of the region, and their upcomingPride is sure to be a highlight of the year.
Portland, Maine is definitely worth visiting, especially in Summer! It’s a charming coastal city with a lot to offer, whether you’re interested in history, food, outdoor activities, vintage shopping, lobster rolls, historic architecture, or a vibrant arts and culture scene.
What’s Queer About Portland, Maine?
Many resources and community groups specifically cater to the LGBTQIA+ population, and Portland prides itself on being a safe and inviting place for people of all backgrounds.
In addition to its scenic coastal beauty and old world charm, Portland’s thriving LGBTQ+ community is visible and active in the city and supported by the general populace. Throughout the year the city hosts events like the Portland Queer Film Festival and the Varsity Gay League provides a space for the LGBTQ+ community to gather and connect.
There are many LGBTQ+-owned businesses in Portland that contribute to the city’s vibrant atmosphere and offer a supportive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. Plus, Maine has laws that protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, making it a more welcoming place for LGBTQ+ individuals.
And, of course, Portland celebrates Pride Month with events and festivities, showcasing its commitment to inclusivity and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.
Pride Portland Parade & Festival
This year, Pride Portland Parade & Festival will bring people in Greater Portland, Maine together for an annual parade and festival on Saturday, June 21 to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of the LGBTQ+ movement, to raise awareness of the community’s ongoing struggles, and to foster an environment of inclusivity, accessibility, and solidarity.
Get out and have some fun while expressing your true self in a safe, welcoming space at Portland’s Pride Bar Crawl 2025 on Saturday, June 21 from 4:00 pm-12:00 am. This event is more than just a pub crawl – it’s an empowering celebration of diversity, inclusion, and love. So, come and meet some new friends and be part of a community that celebrates you.
Celebrate Pride on the narrow gauge rails! Maine Narrow Gauge is proud to offer a fun, inclusive, family-friendly evening train ride along Portland’s waterfront. Bring your family and friends on a 40-minute sunset ride as specially-curated music plays aboard the train. You’ll get amazing dusk views of Casco Bay and the Calendar Islands, as well as ride in lovingly-preserved historic train cars. Dates are TBA but will be announced at MaineNarrowGauge.org.
Attend a live performance at Merrill Auditorium or State Theatre—both iconic venues known for hosting legendary queer performers like Tig Notaro and iconic celebrities including Jonathan Van Ness, who recently spotlighted Portland’s charm on TikTok.
This is just a taste of what’s on. Find more Pride events here.
Plan your stay here. Shop the best lodgings in Portland, ME here.
