Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration

07/23/2025

Last year’s Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration centered on a powerful theme: that LGBTQ+ individuals are woven into the very fabric of Fuquay-Varina—and of our broader society. To bring this idea to life, we invited attendees to decorate individual patches, each representing a unique voice in our community. Thanks to the incredible work of Callie Jordan Walker, those patches were lovingly sewn into a single, vibrant quilt.

Every patch is a story. Every stitch a connection. And now, we’re exploring how best to honor this beautiful piece of community art.

Should we raffle it off to help fund next year’s Pride?
Donate it to a local LGBTQ+ space?
Or find a permanent public home for it?

We’d love your thoughts as we plan its future.

06/28/2025

Huge thanks to everyone who helped make our 4th Annual Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration a smashing success! 🌈💖 Your love, energy, and support made it unforgettable.

06/28/2025

TODAY'S THE DAY! Reposting details below:

The Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration goes beyond just a Strut and a Festival - it provides platforms for creative expression through its open mic events. These open mics aim to provide spaces for community members to share their voices, talents, and stories in a supportive and inclusive environment. Here's what you need to know:

The Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration offers two separate open mic events on Saturday, June 28, 2025, catering to different age groups and forms of expression.

Youth Open Mic:

Who: This open mic is specifically designed for ages 13-17.
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Stick Boy Bread Company (127 S Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC)
Focus: Enjoy an opportunity for creative expression and connection by painting a large canvas.
Admission: Free

Prismatic Open Mic:

Who: Open to all ages
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Location: Oaklyn Springs Brewery (505 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC)
Focus: This open mic emphasizes self-expression through music, with the belief that "music is therapy for the performer and the audience, a way of healing and being healed." Some instruments will be available.
Admission: Free

Whether you're performing or simply attending to listen and support, these open mics embody the spirit of community and celebration that is central to Pride. We hope to see you there!

06/28/2025

LAST CALL FOR THE RAFFLE! DRAWING BEGINS AT 2:30 PM at Mason Jar Lager Company! Must be present to win.

Details reposted below:

Don't forget about to participate in our raffle while you're at the festival. By participating in the Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration raffle, you're not only getting a chance to win some great prizes but also contributing to a significant cause that supports the LGBTQ+ community in Raleigh and the surrounding areas.

We have a ton of local goodies (18 baskets worth), including handcrafted items, gift certificates for local businesses, and other fun surprises. Bid as many times on the baskets you want!

Raffle tickets will be available for purchase on-site during the festival. One ticket for $2, seven tickets for $10, and fifteen tickets for $20. There is no limit to how many tickets may be purchased. We will begin drawing tickets at 2:30 PM. One winner per basket. Winners must be present to claim their prize.

06/28/2025

TODAY'S THE DAY! Reposting the Festival details below.

Join us for a vibrant afternoon of community, celebration, and pride! Here's everything you need to know for the festival event:

Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM (Noon) - 3:00 PM
Location: The Mason Jar Lager Company (341 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526)

What to Expect at the Festival:
Lively Atmosphere: Enjoy a festive and inclusive environment filled with joy and unity.
Awareness Booths: Connect with local businesses and organizations dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and learn about important resources.
Live DJ: Groove to fantastic tunes that will keep the energy high.
Fun Activities: Engage in various activities designed for all ages, including face painting, tarot reading, a photo booth, bracelet making and other craft projects.
Raffle: Participate in a raffle with opportunities to win bountiful baskets of local goodies, all while supporting the LGBT Center of Raleigh.
Family-Friendly: The festival is welcoming to all ages, making it a great outing for families.
Pet-Friendly: Your well-behaved furry friends are welcome to join the fun at the festival!
Food Trucks: Look for Coney Island NC & Pana's Flavors on site to grab a bite to eat.

Important Notes:

Free Admission: The festival is free to attend!
Parking: Ample parking is available in downtown Fuquay-Varina and at Mason Jar. Look for public parking lots at Centennial Square (102 N Main Street), near Fire Station One (304 Angier Road), and between Raleigh Street and East Academy Street. Please be mindful of "no parking" zones and designated emergency areas.

Support a Cause: Your participation and any contributions to the raffle directly benefit the LGBT Center of Raleigh.

06/28/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FQdX8t7vJ/
Thank you, Don Schwenneker WTVD, for being an ally.

I just had to spend part of my day hiding hateful comments about attending the Raleigh Out festival last weekend. I'm not complaining, it's part of the job. But I want to be clear, I forecast the weather for everyone: gay, straight, black, white, tall, short, fat, thin. I appreciate everyone who watches, even the haters... Barbecue Sauce.

06/28/2025

Today's the day! We hope you can join us for our Strut around downtown and that you come a bit early to hear some affirming stories during our Story Hour.

REPOSTING THE DETAILS BELOW:
Date: TODAY, Saturday, June 28, 2025
Location: Falcon Park (105 Falcon Dr, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526-2016) - Specifically at the Falcon Park Picnic Shelter for Story Time and the Strut starting point.

Story Time: 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
The Strut: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Story Time: A welcoming and inclusive story time for children and families, held at the Falcon Park Picnic Shelter. There will also be time to apply Fuquay-Varina Pride temporary tattoos.

The Strut: This is a joyful, visible walk for the community! Positive signs, banners, colorful costumes, and rainbow accessories are both allowed and appreciated.

Route: You'll gather, hear brief speeches from community members, and then "Strut with pride" from Falcon Park to the John W. Byrne Municipal Building.

Distance: The walk is less than 20 minutes and stays on a paved sidewalk.

Family-Friendly: Both Story Time and The Strut are family-friendly events.
Pets: Pets are not permitted on the Strut route.

Weather: This is a rain or shine event! If weather permits, the gathering will be in the field near the Falcon Park Picnic Shelter. In case of rain, the gathering will be in Council Gym. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen, hats, and other sun protection as it is sure to be a hot day! Check fv-pride.org and their social media for updates in severe weather.

06/27/2025

We're so excited to celebrate Fuquay-Varina Pride with all of you! To make sure everyone has a fantastic and memorable time, here are some tips for staying safe and comfortable throughout the event:

Stay Hydrated and Cool
June in North Carolina can be warm! Please remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle, and there will be water bottles available. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing and we recommend wearing a hat and sunglasses (or even bringing an umbrella) to protect yourself from the sun.

Sun Protection is Key
Be sure to apply sunscreen generously and reapply every few hours, especially if you're sweating (and won't we all be?).

Know Your Surroundings & Be Aware
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the event layout, including exits, first-aid stations, and restrooms. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. If you see something that doesn't feel right, say something to event staff.

Respect Personal Space & Boundaries
Pride is a joyous celebration, but it's important to respect everyone's personal space and boundaries. Always ask for consent before taking someone's photo or engaging in physical contact.

Buddy Up!
Consider attending with a friend or a group. Having a buddy can enhance your experience and provide an extra layer of safety. Establish a meeting point in case you get separated.

First Aid & Emergency Information
In case of a medical emergency or if you're not feeling well, please locate an event volunteer or a law enforcement officer immediately. We'll have trained personnel on site to assist you. At the Festival, you can also directly seek assistance from the AOK Training booth, who is provided first aid services for the event.

Stay Connected
Charge your phone before you come, and consider bringing a portable charger. This way, you can stay connected with friends, take fabulous pictures, and access important event updates.

We want Fuquay-Varina Pride to be a welcoming and safe space for everyone to express themselves and celebrate our community. Let's look out for each other and make this an incredible day!

06/27/2025

🌈 TOMORROW is the day! 🌈
Join us for the 4th Annual Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration — a full day of joy, community, and love. From the Strut to the Festival, open mics to story time, there's something for everyone!

📚 Story Time
📍 Falcon Park
🕒 9:30am - 10:00am

✨ Strut
📍 Falcon Park
🕒10:00am - 11:00am

🥳 Festival
📍Mason Jar Lager
🕒12:00pm - 3:00pm
🎟 Raffle draw at 2:30pm!

🎶 Prismatic Open Mic
📍Oaklyn Springs - Downtown Varina
🕒 3:00pm - 6:30pm

🎤 Youth Open Mic
📍Stick Boy Bread Co.
🕒4:00pm - 6:00pm

Full schedule& FAQ at fv-pride.org
Let’s show up and celebrate PRIDE in Fuquay-Varina! 🏳️‍🌈✨

06/26/2025

FAM ❤️🧡💛💚🩵💙💜

Pride isn’t just a party - it’s a legacy of resistance, resilience, and joy. Pride started as a protest, and we’re so honored to take part in celebrating the bravery of those who stood PROUD at the Stonewall Riots 55+ years ago.

We’re locking arms. We love this community. Come join us.

06/26/2025

Don't forget to participate in our raffle while you're at the festival. By participating in the Fuquay-Varina Pride Celebration raffle, you're not only getting a chance to win some great prizes but also contributing to a significant cause that supports the LGBTQ+ community in Raleigh and the surrounding areas.

We have a ton of local goodies (18 baskets worth), including handcrafted items, gift certificates for local businesses, and other fun surprises. Bid as many times on the baskets you want!

Raffle tickets will be available for purchase on-site during the festival. One ticket for $2, seven tickets for $10, and fifteen tickets for $20. There is no limit to how many tickets may be purchased. We will begin drawing tickets at 2:30 PM. One winner per basket. Winners must be present to claim their prize.