Just outside Washington, D.C., Howard County is known for its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere—and Pride is no exception. Whether you're planning a road trip or looking for local events to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, Howard County offers a variety of ways to get involved. From vibrant gatherings in historic Ellicott City to LGBTQ+ owned businesses and year-round support, Pride is embraced here every day of the year.
Pride Month in Howard County
June is all about celebration and empowerment. Pride Month brings a lineup of events that honor and uplift the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you're attending a parade or exploring local businesses that champion inclusion, there are countless ways to participate.
Pride Nite Out Fundraiser
📍 Union Jacks
📅 June 1, 2025; 6:30 p.m.
Howard County Pride and OEC Pride are partnering with Union Jacks for a fabulous fundraiser! Drag all night, fierce queens, and a sizzling Drag auction. COme show your support for OEC Pride. The show starts at 6:30 p.m., and doors open at 4:00 p.m. TIckets: $10
OEC Pride Festival
📍 Historic Ellicott City
📅 June 8, 2025; 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Join in the 5th annual OEC Pride Festival in the courthouse parking lot and the Inn at Mt. Ida. Enjoy free, family-friendly activities plus music, drag, food trucks, vendors, a beer garden and more! Explore a scavenger hunt through Historic Ellicott City with great prizes.
Pride Drag Brunch
📍 Black Flag Brewing Company
📅 June 15, 2025; 12 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Join the unstoppable duo Dustyn Dawn and Chanel Belladonna plus the talents of Lana Luxx and Numi Von Heights at Black Flag Brewing Company for a fabulous celebration of love and pride! Tu Casa Food Truck will be serving up brunch and tacos.
Howard County Pride
Pride in July by Columbia Association
📍 Downtown Columbia Lakefront
📅 July 26, 2025 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Join Columbia Association and Howard County PFLAG for the inaugural Pride in July, a celebration of love, identity, and community. The event begins with a neon color parade around Lake Kittamaqundi, followed by a high-energy dance floor hosted by SADBrunch at the Downtown Columbia Lakefront. Come together for a day filled with color, music, and pride. Parade registration details coming soon here.
Pride Is Year-Round In Howard County
Pride in Howard County doesn’t end in June. The community values year-round inclusion and support, reflected in everything from local policies to business ownership. LGBTQ+ residents and visitors alike will find welcoming spaces and organizations dedicated to creating a place where everyone can live authentically.
LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses to Visit
Supporting LGBTQ+ owned businesses is a meaningful way to engage with the community.
E.C. Pops & Doc Taylor's Toy Emporium
Owned by Lance Sovine and Doug Yeakey, these shops are more than just local favorites—they’re pillars of inclusivity. From hand-crafted popcorn to whimsical toys, these stores offer joyful experiences alongside a visible commitment to LGBTQ+ representation, education, and celebration.
Owners of EC Pops Lance Sovine and Doug Yeakey
The Wine Bin
Owned by Dave Carney, The Wine Bin is a go-to for curated wines, craft beers, and spirits. Its cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind. They also host regular tastings and events that bring people together, celebrating both community and craftsmanship.
Shopping at these businesses supports more than just local entrepreneurs—it helps sustain a culture of acceptance and diversity in Howard County.
Inclusive Vibes In Ellicott City
As you stroll through historic Ellicott City, you’ll see storefronts proudly displaying signs of diversity and inclusion. These visuals send a clear message: all are welcome here. It’s a small town with a big heart, where values of acceptance and unity are celebrated in everyday ways.
Diversity signs in storefronts in historic Ellicott City - E.C. Pops
Planning a Pride-Filled Getaway? More Pride in the DMV
If you’re looking to expand your Pride celebrations, the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) region is full of nearby events that make for an easy day trip or weekend escape.
Just Down the Road: Pride Events in Washington D.C.
Capital Pride in Washington, D.C.
Every June, D.C. hosts the Capital Pride Parade and Festival, drawing more than 200,000 attendees for a week of parades, performances, and community connection.
WorldPride 2025
🗓️ May 23 – June 8, 2025
Washington, D.C. will host WorldPride 2025, a global celebration marking 50 years of Pride. Expect landmark moments like a historic march from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol, live performances, a Kennedy Center gala, and more. Howard County offers convenient, affordable lodging just a short drive away—making it the ideal home base for your Pride adventure.
WorldPride 2025
Stay and Celebrate In Howard County
Stay and Celebrate in Howard County
Located just minutes from BWI Airport, Howard County offers easy access for travelers flying in for WorldPride 2025. Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight, you’ll find accommodations like the Comfort Suites and other hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a warm welcome.
📝 Tip: Events and dates are subject to change. Be sure to check with event organizers before attending.
Celebrate Pride in and around Howard County—a place where diversity is embraced, community is celebrated, and everyone is free to be themselves.
