Western Massachusetts

In Hampshire County, we know how to bring the fun. Especially when we’re gathered together, in support of community, and in celebration of inclusivity, acceptance, and LOVE for all people, everywhere. Can you party like we can? Grab your rainbow flags and pom-poms, your best friends and sparkly banners. Most importantly, bring your solidarity (and the loudest megaphone you can find).

May 4th is Pride Day in Northampton, and this year, the town is celebrating the 38th version of this highly anticipated and beloved event. Last year, 40,000 people ascended on Northampton to celebrate the kick-off of Pride Season in New England. And this year, even more people are expected to join in the festivities. 

Since 1982, the Northampton Pride Event has been a place for LGBTQ+/allies to gather, celebrate progress, and plan for the future. And every year, the event becomes bigger, better, and more inspiring. Please do yourself a favor and join us for the awe-inspiring, gay and lesbian-loving, transgender-celebrating, life-changing, extraordinary, community love-fest of a day.

So, see you there? For the record, when we say that Hampshire County BRINGS THE FUN, we really mean it. So, chop chop! May 4th is just around the corner, and that costume isn’t crafting itself.

We Pride Rain or Shine

As always, the rain or shine event (bring your worst, weather Gods) begins promptly at 11:00 am with the Pride Parade. Grab a coffee at Tart Baking Co., and then gather with the masses on Old South St. The parade winds through a spirited and bustling downtown, and culminates at the Main Stage of the Three County Fairgrounds (where admission and parking is free). 

We hope this goes without saying, but don’t forget your dancing shoes. From 12:30 - 4:30 pm, the main stage will play host to three drag shows, two live music performances, and a marriage ceremony for a local LGBTQ couple, officiated by Northampton’s own — Mayor Narkewicz. Bringing kids? The youth area will have an abundance of tents geared toward kids and teens, with crafts and resources galore. It’s a day for people to come together to dance, shop, socialize with friends, and celebrate the freedom to love who you love and to be who you are. It’s a little like EVERY day in Northampton, with a little extra hutzpah.

The Official After Party

Pride Day in Northampton is always a day to remember. But Pride wouldn’t be Pride without the Official After Party. After a day filled with fun, the festivities continue at Club V in Florence, MA from 7:00 pm - midnight. Get your tickets now! All proceeds go toward the cost of next year’s events.

We Have So Much to Show You

In Town for Pride? A lot has happened since you were last here, so there’s plenty to do and lots to see. In an attempt to help you narrow down the options (and get the most out of your stay), we’ve curated a list of new (or new to you) offerings we’re excited to share.

In Northampton:

HERO - Is your beard unruly? Look no further than HERO, a beautifully-appointed, full-service barber shop and mercantile carrying accessories for all genders. Come for a haircut and leave with everything you need to create the most perfect handlebar mustache.

Iconica Social Club - Iconica is a new(ish), fabulously offbeat cafe located right behind the Haymarket at 1 Amber Lane. They’re serving up single-origin coffee and espresso, cold press juice, food, foreign films, and comedy nights (the list goes on). Also, the space is indescribably cool, so please go and see for yourself.

Assemble — made + curated by Justin Brown - According to Justin, Assembled is “a gathering of people and objects. A retail experience where furniture, art, and materials inspire; provoke imagination; and provide unique design solutions for the home.” Translation: this place is filled with things your friends and loved ones want for their birthdays.

NETA – Pay a visit to NETA, an adult-use and medical cannabis dispensary in downtown Northampton. Our only advice… grab a coffee on your way. There’s been a line out the door since they opened for recreational sales in November of 2018. 

Familiars Coffee & Tea — Familiars is serving specialty coffee and tea in the newly renovated (and long-vacant) Kathy’s Diner train-car space. Enjoy a matcha latte in the spacious and bright cafe, or bring your coffee to the outdoor seating area and watch the world go by. 

Belly of the Beast - Belly of the Beast is a warm and welcoming local eatery featuring from-scratch seasonal fare. They’re hyper-focused on partnering with local farms, forward-thinking sustainability practices, and giving back to the community.