WILLIAMSBURG — Williamsburg will host its first large-scale Pride celebration Saturday at Jamestown Beach Event Park, bringing together LGBTQ+ residents and allies for a day of music, activities and community events.
The event was organized in part by Brian Brewer, a recent newcomer from New York, and his husband, a minister at the Williamsburg Unitarian Universalists. The church’s Social Justice Committee has been working with two other local congregations on the effort.
Organizers said the goal was to create a Pride event in Williamsburg, complementing larger regional celebrations.
“We needed something to lift up the spirits of folks in town and we needed to be visible, to say we are here, we are in your community, we are your family members, we’re your friends, we’re your clergy, we’re your store clerks, your business owners and your taxpayers,” Brewer said.
Planning began earlier this year when Brewer joined the effort in March. He said organizers saw a need for a more local celebration, especially for families and older residents who may not be able to travel to larger events.
The event will include children’s crafts and play areas, dress-up photo booths, interactive activities, a DJ and dancing, along with vendors and food trucks. Organizers also plan contests, games and a fashion show. Attendees are encouraged to bring pets, which can also be dressed for the occasion. Delegate Jessica Anderson is scheduled to deliver brief remarks at 1 p.m.
Following the daytime event, an 18-plus after-party is planned at the Virginia Beer Company. On Sunday, Historic Area Religions Together will hold a service in solidarity with Williamsburg Pride at Williamsburg Unitarian Universalists at 2:30 p.m.
Jamestown Beach Event Park is located at 2205 Jamestown Road in Williamsburg.
