Northport Pridefest Welcomes the LGBTQ+ Community

For the first time in Northport’s history, the community and its local businesses will be welcoming the LGBTQ+ community throughout June.

The month-long Pridefest celebration will begin on Thursday, June 1st, at 12 noon, with a ceremonial Pride flag raising at Northport’s Village Hall. Mayor Donna Koch will raise the Pride flag as bells ring from St. Paul’s Methodist Church to proclaim the official opening of Northport Pridefest. The mayor will be accompanied by other elected officials, community and religious leaders, the Village Police, local businesses, and members and allies of Northport’s own LGBTQ+ communities.

The highlight of Northport Pridefest will be “Pridefest in the Park,” on Saturday, June 17th from 1-4PM.  The event will be held in Northport Village Park, located on the waterfront at the foot of Main Street.  A crosswalk depicted in the PRIDE rainbow colors will direct visitors into the park. The festival offers a safe and welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to enjoy the day.

Throughout the day, visitors will be entertained by a DJ, live music, and other performances. There will also be a brief program of speeches from 2-2:30PM by elected officials, a religious leader, and event organizers. Vendors will be positioned at tents throughout the park, which include displays by non-profits, health-related organizations, faith communities, and businesses.

Pridefest in the Park is positioned as a “pre-tea” event. After the conclusion, attendees will be encouraged to walk to Northport’s restaurants, wine shops, and breweries.  Many shop keepers will be offering special merchandise and offers, and the Northport Historical Society Museum will feature a special Pride exhibition.

In a statement, Mayor Koch said . . .

“I invite all residents from Northport, our surrounding communities, and members of Long Island’s LGBTQ+ community for an inspiring day of fun and celebration on Saturday, June 17th.”