Hartford’s First Black Pride Festival Celebrates Culture and Community

Dates: July 24‑26
Location: Downtown Hartford, Connecticut

Friday – Opening & Art Ball

• Afternoon
• Opening Ceremony at the Hartford Public Library
• Recognition of leaders and groups that have amplified Black queer life in Connecticut.

• Awards announced: Liberation, Legacy, Icon, Sanctuary, Pillar of Pride, Vanguard, Black Joy, Community Impact, Visionary Creator.

• Evening
• Art Ball & Fashion Show at Artists Collective
• Designers: Antwaun K. Wright (Antzinyopants), Rootswear Design, Naakt Design
• Features installations, performances, and storytelling.

Saturday – Marketplace & Youth Gatherings

• Marketplace at First Presbyterian Church, Capitol Avenue

• Vendors, wellness activities, and live performances.

• Youth Gathering at Kamora’s Cultural Corner

• Interactive sessions for younger attendees.

• Party & After‑party at Social House
• “Tia’s Roommate” party, live DJs, games.

Sunday – Faith & Music

• Morning

• Faith & Healing Service at Faith Congregational Church.

• Afternoon
• Gospel House Music Experience at the same church.

Ticketing & Cost

• Most events are free.
• Saturday fashion show and Social House events require admission.
• A $26 weekend pass covers all paid programming.

About the Festival

Organized by NxtThrsdy, a Seattle native who moved to Hartford three years ago and previously helped launch the Pacific Northwest Black Pride Weekend.

• The festival is a visibility, belonging, and legacy‑building event for Black queer people.
• Faith plays a significant role in the community, integrated into the festival’s programming.

Timing & Future Plans

• Scheduled after Hartford’s Jazz Festival weekend to link music, civil rights history, and Black artistic expression.
• A second edition is already being planned for the same July window next year.