REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. - The Rehoboth Beach Pride Festival is returning this year, organized by Sussex Pride. The annual celebration will take place at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center Saturday, July 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sussex Pride says the festival will highlight both celebration and advocacy. This year’s event features performances by Ivy Blu Austin, Goldstar, the Cast of Clear Space Theatre, JC Pizzaz, and Kadet Kelly, with Roxy Overbrooke returning as host.
Educational workshops will also be offered, covering topics such as suicide prevention, domestic violence, legal protections and supporting LGBTQIA Latinx communities. Panel sessions include:
Supporting the LGBTQIA-Identified Latinx Community at 9:30 a.m.
Let’s Talk About It: Suicide Prevention at 10:35 a.m.
Caregiving: Knowledge and Resources for Caregivers at 11:40 a.m.
ACLU Delaware Firewall for Freedom at 12:45 p.m.
I Can’t Believe it’s Me: Domestic Violence Workshop at 1:50 p.m.
David Mariner, executive director of Sussex Pride, emphasized the festival’s importance.
"The challenges facing our community are real and cannot be ignored," said David Mariner, Executive Director of Sussex Pride. "But the strength that we exhibit as a united front is inspiring. Delaware has long been a place of acceptance and love, and we are committed to ensuring that every individual, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, feels valued and supported."
The festival will also raise funds to support unhoused LGBTQ+ youth in Delaware. Last year, raffle proceeds of $1,000 were donated to the Safeguards Housing Committee, a program of PFLAG Wilmington. Nationwide an estimated 40 percent of unhoused youth, and 30 percent of youth in foster care identify as LGBTQ+ said organizers.
60 vendors will fill the convention center with resources and support, including businesses, health care providers, faith communities and advocacy organizations.
After the main event, an after-party will take place at Freddie’s Beach Bar at 3 p.m. Gay Women of Rehoboth will also host an evening program with a screening of “Radical Harmonies,” a performance by comic Karen Williams and music by Erin McKeown.