Alameda, an island city in the East Bay, will celebrate its inaugural Pride festivities this weekend with an all-ages prom, park party, a block party, and more.
The "Over the Rainbow" prom takes place Friday, October 7, from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. The first half, until 8:30, will be held within the Al Fresco Dining Park located at 1435 Webster Street, as well as in the parklet spaces and sidewalk area near the Fireside Lounge, located at 1453 Webster Street. The second half of the event will take place at the Fireside Lounge beginning at 9 p.m.
Tickets for the all-ages portion are $15, or two for $20. The 21 and over party at the Fireside is $25, or two for $40.
According to a news release, the prom is a kickoff party for Alameda's inaugural LGBTQIA+ Pride weekend. It's geared toward the LGBTQIA+ youth in Alameda and for everyone who's never felt safe or comfortable attending their prom due to their gender identity or orientation, the release stated. The prom will feature vendors, tarot, henna, and food provided by Calafia, along with DJs, drag shows, pictures, and dancing.
This event will have something for everyone, organizers stated. "As we gather and celebrate living in one's truth and the Pride we have to live out and openly while building community and supporting local artisans, performers, musicians, and change makers," they added.
The prom was created by Anya Dick and Vicky Sparkle-Titz, two local Alamedan drag queens who have had the support of two local businesses, Feathered Outlaw and the Fireside Lounge.
Other events
On Saturday, October 8, from 1 to 5 p.m., there will be a Pride in the Park party at Chochenyo Park, located at 2430 Encinal Avenue. This is the Pride weekend's main event, organizers stated. The event is open to all ages and is free. Food trucks will have items for purchase and there will be vendors. Beer, wine, and other beverages will also be available for purchase.
There will be a kids area with activities such as face painting and arts and crafts.
Attendees should bring their own lawn chairs; coolers and outside alcohol are not allowed.
Later that day, starting at 5 p.m., there will be a Park Street Pride Strut. The event will start at the Club House Sports Bar, located at 1215 Park Street (at San Jose Avenue), and continue north on Park Street with a block party on Alameda Avenue.
Finally, the post-Pride party drag brunch will be held Sunday, October 9, from noon to 2 p.m., at the Alameda Comedy Club, 2431 Central Avenue. Tickets are $48. The event is for ages 12 and over.
For more information and to purchase tickets for those events that require them, click here.
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