For some, Pride is a party filled with dancing, drag shows and parades. For others, it’s a chance to feel seen, supported and connected.
This year’s events across Dayton offer a mix of both, from lively street festivals and charity runs to community gatherings focused on mental health and advocacy. Here are some of the biggest Pride Month events happening around the Dayton area this year.
June 3 | Have A Gay Day Pride Dinner 2026
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Location: Sinclair College, 444 W. Third St.
One of the earliest Pride events of the month is happening at Sinclair College. Sponsored by The Rubi Girls, The Transformative Justice Initiative and more, dinner will consist of a baked potato bar along with family-friendly entertainment from local performers.
The organizers have specified a quiet room opening at 6:30 p.m., offering guests a peaceful break from socializing if they choose. The event will close with 45 minutes of free time to socialize, ensuring all attendees can take their time and enjoy the evening. The dinner is free and open to the public, but tickets are required to reserve a seat.
June 5 | “Affair on Saint Clair” Kickoff Celebration
Time: 6-10 p.m.
Location: North Saint Clair Street
To officially kick off Pride weekend, the “Affair on Saint Clair” brings the community together on Friday evening in downtown Dayton. Beginning at 6 p.m., the street transforms into a lively celebration filled with live music, food trucks, local vendors and entertainment.
In addition, the event creates a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ individuals, families and allies to gather before the main Pride Parade and Festival. The kickoff sets the tone for the entire weekend by highlighting inclusion, visibility and community support.
June 6 | Dayton Pride Parade & Festival
Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Downtown Dayton
Following Friday evening’s kickoff, the 50th Dayton Pride Parade and Festival takes center stage on Saturday, bringing thousands of people into downtown Dayton. Beginning around 11 a.m. at Jefferson and 2nd Street, the parade moves through the city streets with vibrant floats, marching groups, local organizations and performers, all coming together to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride and equality.
After the parade, the festival continues through the afternoon with live entertainment, food vendors and resource booths. Overall, the event highlights unity and progress while giving the LGBTQ+ community a powerful space to be seen, supported and celebrated.
June 7 | Running With Pride 5K Run/Walk
Time: 9 a.m. (Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.)
Location: Eastwood MetroPark, 1385 Harshman Rd.
On Sunday morning, the Running With Pride 5K brings together fitness, community and advocacy at Eastwood MetroPark. Starting at 9 a.m., runners and walkers of all ages participate in this inclusive race organized by PFLAG Dayton.
Participants often wear rainbow-themed outfits, turning the race into a colorful celebration of pride and unity. After the race, attendees can enjoy refreshments, music and community activities that promote connection and support. Registration costs $40 for participants.
June 27 | Made Good: An Episcopal Celebration of Queer Joy
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Christ Episcopal Church, 20 W. First St.
Among other places of worship in the Dayton area, Christ Episcopal Church on First Street has been outspoken about their support for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups.
The June 27 gathering will include brunch before the service at noon, celebrating what their social media calls “a God who is expansively queer.” The church is encouraging attendees to bring non-perishable food items to benefit the food pantry at Have a Gay Day.
Monsoon Koirala, reporter
See more from The Clarion:
- Parking garage under construction throughout summer, pedestrian access limited
- 5 ways to celebrate Pride Month in Dayton
- Dayton Dragons heat up for summer with fresh talent
- YourVoice: What Sinclair students wish they had known before starting college
- 5 Memorial Day events to kick off the summer
