Hattiesburg has commemorated Pine Belt Pride, a celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and history, every October since 2015 in a week-long extravaganza. This year's celebration runs from Oct. 3-9 and is set to be the biggest one yet!
Hattiesburg has the honor of being known as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly places in the state of Mississippi, according to the Human Rights Campaign and it shows it with pride!
The year's events include a kick-off BBQ, karaoke night, Pride in the Park, and a Pride After Party. There is something for everyone, young and old.
Pine Belt Pride was founded by The Spectrum Center, Mississippi’s only LGBTQ+ community center in the state with a dedicated physical space. They use that space to host informational sessions, support groups, and community events, like our youth group and Trans and Gender Non-conforming Supper Saturday. President of The Spectrum Center, Keenon Walker, speaks fondly about The Spectrum Center’s ties to the Hub City.
“I knew Hattiesburg would be the perfect location to serve portions of South Mississippi who aren’t able to travel out of state to experience a pride event. And, we are centrally located so people from out-of-state can come spend the weekend with us. Every year we gain more community support,” Walker said. “We strive to host a variety of events that appeal to all members of the community. Our events showcase local talents and featured guests to draw in the crowds.”
All Pride Week and The Spectrum Center info can be found on their Facebook pages.
Traveling from out of town? Special rates for this week are available at the Hotel Indigo.
VisitHATTIESBURG is a proud supporter of Pine Belt Pride
