After a pared down LGBT Pride Celebration in 2020, organizers say Dayton Pride is back June 4 and 5, 2021.
Even though the state’s COVID-related health mandates will have been lifted just days before Dayton Pride, organizers say safety remains a big concern.
To allow for more social distancing, the amount of vendors allowed on Courthouse Square for the annual expo has been cut in half.
"We were more than excited to bring it back this year and I was actually kind of determined to lead the board and to make the right decision to the community - it was based on safety but also the need to have an in-person Pride Celebration," says R. J. McKay, president of the Greater Dayton LGBT Center.
He says other safety precautions will be in place for the all-outdoor event.
“My hope is that you come out and experience PRIDE to your comfort level. We are still going to be asking people to wear masks. There's no mask shaming. We do have masks to give out, so anybody who forgets theirs, who see that the crowd’s maybe a little bit bigger than they anticipated and would like to wear a mask, will have those available.”
Participating bars and other businesses may have their own safety measures in place.
PRIDE Events include a parade, live bands on the Square and a performance by Dayton’s Rubi Girls.
You can find details on the Greater Dayton LGBT Center website.
