June is Pride Month, and two of New Braunfels’ signature LGBTQ+ events are scheduled for this week.
NBTX Pride’s celebration of Pride Month is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 10 at the Comal County Fairgrounds, 701 E. Common St., New Braunfels.
The festival offers a mix of entertainment, community engagement and educational experiences.
Talented local artists who embody the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community will perform. Food and pride-themed merchandise will be available for sale.
“The NBTX Pride Festival isn’t just about one day of celebration,” Riverside Pride said in its June newsletter. “It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come in the fight for quality and acceptance and a call to action for the challenges that still lie ahead. It’s a day of unity, love and embracing our unique identities.”
Organizers said they’ve increased security to ensure safety.
A Pride After Party celebration follows from 9 p,m. to midnight at Villa at Gruene, 1190 Gruene Rd., New Braunfels.
Pride Worship Service
The second annual Interfaith Pride Worship Service, sponsored by the New Braunfels Interfaith Association, starts at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 8 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 312 S. Guenther Ave., New Braunfels.
Everyone is welcome to attend regardless of their faiths or beliefs. A reception follows.
Father Ripp Hardaway with St. John’s said his church is honored to host this year’s worship service.
“We live in a world that tends to be stingy with the unconditional love of God,” he said. “We at St. John’s strive to help all people know that loving embrace.”
Organizers describe the service as a “powerful opportunity to show support for our LGBTQ+ siblings and their allies.”
Rev. Carla Cheatham of Faith Church (UCC) said last year’s service was a “powerful reminder of the importance of coming together as a community to celebrate love and acceptance.
“We hope this year’s event will be even more impactful, and we invite everyone in the community to join us,” she said.
Thursday’s service features speakers from a variety of religious traditions who will share their perspectives on the importance of acceptance of love for all.
Local musicians and spiritual leaders will lead celebrants in song and prayer to create an inclusive and supportive space, organizers say.
