Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride

LGBTQ+ Book Club @ Cellar Door
2025-04-28 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-05-26 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-06-23 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-07-28 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-08-25 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-09-22 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-10-27 18:00 - 19:30, 2025-11-24 18:00 - 19:30 (America/Los_Angeles) and 5 more dates | Cellar Door Bookstore, 473 E. Alessandro Blvd., Suite B, Riverside, CA, 92508, United States
Read and discuss books by or about members of the LGBTQ community. This is a hybrid book club, and you can attend either in person or by Zoom! Meets every 4th Monday of the month at 6pm.

“Our store is a gathering place for our community, where long-time book lovers or new readers can come together. Besides our many, many book clubs, we host open mic nights, author signings, game nights, and other events. If you're looking for a good book, feel free to ask a bookseller for a recommendation, take a peek at our Best “Cellars,” or browse the Indies Next picks, which are chosen each month by independent booksellers across the nation. And be sure to say hello to our bookstore dog, Nymeria, or Nya for short!”

Event is free, but please consider purchasing the club book selections at Cellar Door Bookstore.

This event is not endorsed or organized by Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride. It is organized by a third party, and we are boosting the signal.

Riverside's Inland Empire Pride Festival 2025
2025-05-10 12:00 - 21:00 | White Park, 3936 Chestnut St, Riverside, California, 92501, United States
Get ready for our 3rd Annual Pride Festival! Our FREE Pride festival returns in 2025 on Saturday, May 10, 2025. This time, in historic White Park in Downtown Riverside.

Follow us on social media @RiversideLGBTQ everywhere

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

YouTube

LinkedIn

Volunteers Needed!

Tickets

We are 100% volunteer-powered. All proceeds go towards helping keep our PRIDE festival and parade FREE for all attendees. “Pay what you can” is our model.

Thank you to our 2025 sponsors!

Bronze Donor

Sabrina Gonzalez

Community

Youth Zone

Media

Overview

#PRIDE is in Riverside! Join us for a day of celebration, elevation, and reflection. You will enjoy performances by unique entertainers, dance to the beat of up-and-coming LGBTQIA+ performers, experience LGBTQ History of Inland Empire, and enjoy over 120 LGBTQIA+ oriented and friendly organizations and companies. Eat, shop, drink, and dance!

This is a FREE event. Hours are as follows:

Gate opens at 12 PM

Exhibitors/Vendors: 12 – 9 PM

Main Stage: 2 – 9 PM

Beer Garden: 2 – 8 PM (beer, wine, champagne)

Youth Zone: 12 – 5 PM (17 and under by Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance)

Queer History Corner: 12 – 6 PM

Workshops: 12 – 6 PM

Karaoke: 3:30 – 5 PM

Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, 100% volunteer-powered. We cannot succeed without our dedicated volunteers and the community's support.

Location

Located at Chestnut and Tenth St in downtown Riverside, White Park was established in 1883 and was Riverside’s first City park.

Elements

There is something for everyone!

120+ Vendors and Exhibitors

Main Stage Entertainment

Food & Beer Garden

DJ, picnic, and dancing out in a park setting

Workshops and Panels

Youth Zone (17 and under)

Festival-only Merchandise

Entertainers (Main Stage)

Latina goddess Valentina (IG: @allaboutvalentina) was a contestant on RuPaul's Drag Race's season nine, All Stars season four, and co-host of Drag Race México season one. She's also ambassador for @LALGBTCenter and @TrevorProjectMX. Valentina identifies as nonbinary, and uses she/her pronouns.

Robert Rene (@robertrenemusic) is a pop singer/dancer hailing from Rancho Cucamonga, CA, whose journey in the entertainment industry has been a wild ride of phenomenal wins and unbelievable battles. Robert Rene has had a remarkable climb of over 10 million+ impressions across all of his social media platforms ever since his virality on TikTok and his socials has been taking a rise once and for all. He was featured as #4 of Top 10 artists to watch in 2024 by Rolling Stone Mena.

Since 2022, @athenakillsofficial has been a staple in many of our Pride events, big and small. Pride bowling, BBQ, Holigay, hosting our 2023 Gayla, Athena Kills it every time. We love Athena and we can't get enough of her! We're honored to give her our shoutout as our 2025 Resident Queen!

Athena will kick off Pride with Drag Queen Story Time on the Stonewall Stage, then host the afternoon portion of our main stage.

Mariachi Arco•Iris de Los Angeles (@mariachiarcoiris) is the first and only LGBTQ+ mariachi in the world. A unique and dynamic ensemble representing the traditions of the rich culture of Mexico, this group was created as a haven for mariachi musicians who identify as LGBTQ+ to come together and perform traditional Mexican regional music in an otherwise “machista” and discriminating subculture of the mariachi world.

Sofya Wang is a California-based indie/alternative pop artist. Being a first generation Chinese-American and apart of the LGBTQ+ community, @sofya_wang writes songs exploring her own interpersonal relationships, sensuality, and romanticism. With eclectic and ever expanding influences from top 40s pop, alternative R&B artists, indie electronica bands, hip hop, underground rave music, to even sultry crooning country ballads, Sofya effortlessly blends genres – just as she does with her own gender expression. Sofya's music truly represents the way she lives her life – with endless self exploration and fluidity.

Welcome Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse (pronounced bo gree-gree ) to our main stage! @beauxgrisgris is a California-based roots rock (blending Blues Rock Americana, Country, and Soul) band created and led by Louisiana-born-and-raised musician Greta Valenti (Well Hung Heart) and UK British Blues Hall of Fame Inductee, Robin Davey (The Hoax, DVL, Well Hung Heart).

Beaux Gris Gris and The Apocalypse's debut album Love & Murder spurned Top 10 hits in genre charts across Europe. This year, the band is releasing their 3rd album, “Hot Nostalgia Radio” on their independent label, GROW VISION Music & Records, and touring extensively across the UK, Europe, & United States.

The Sirens are back! @sirens_rhythmbeatz tore up our 2022 festival main stage and 2023 Gayla with with fierce dance moves and fabulosity. The Sirens dance at the Rhythm Beatz Dance Studio in Rialto. They are a dance group formed to help empower women. They promote body positivity, self love, and empowering others to do what they love.

Joining us for the first time, Rochone is a singer/songwriter living the dream in Hollywood, California. @rochonemusic believes that music heals all. His music is both honest and heartfelt while taking his listeners on an emotional journey.

Justyn Caze (@justyncaze)Bow down to the Imperial Crown Prince Royale, Justyn Caze! A trailblazing drag king with undeniable swagger, Justyn turns every stage into a runway of rebellion and artistry. His performances are a celebration of gender expression, creativity, and unapologetic confidence.

Kelly K Doll (@xo_kellyk)Kelly K Doll is a show-stopping drag artist known for her transformative glamour and crowd-pleasing charisma. Whether she's channeling iconic divas or owning the spotlight in her own right, Kelly is a must-see every Tuesday night at Starlets at The Menagerie.

Scalene OnixXx (@bry92an_scalene) Scalene OnixXx is a cherished queen known for blending heart, humor, and empowerment into every appearance. As a key figure in Riverside’s Drag Queen Story Hour, she brings color and compassion to families across the region—proving that drag can educate, inspire, and connect across generations.

Jazmyn Simone-Échelon (@dapeoplesqueen)All rise for Da People’s Queen! Jazmyn Simone-Échelon is a magnetic host and veteran entertainer whose fierce presence and dedication to community uplift have made her a cherished icon in Riverside’s drag scene. Don’t miss her bringing the fire every week at VIP’s SICKONING Saturdays.

Nebuer Styles (@nebuyaystyles)Nebuer Styles brings flair, fire, and fearless energy to every performance she touches. As the host of VIP’s Hot Mess Express on Thursday nights, she curates a space where drag meets chaos in the best way—celebrating authenticity, comedy, and raw talent with no cover and no apologies.

Sa'Hara (@oohsahara) Crowned Hamburger Mary’s Entertainer of the Year 2025, Sa’Hara is a commanding force on the mic and on stage. With unforgettable performances at events like Black Girl Magic and regional Pride celebrations, she fuses beauty, wit, and passion into a drag experience you won’t forget.

Workshops (Stonewall Stage)

1 PM

Drag Queen Story TimeSponsored by: Cellar Door BookstoreSpeakers: Linda Sherman-Nurick with Athena Monet Kills, Scalene OnixXx and Kelly K

Description: Kick off the Riverside Pride Festival with drag queen story time featuring Kelly K, Scalene OnixXx and Athena Monet Kills! Get ready to be spellbound as our fabulous queens take the stage to narrate heartwarming tales that celebrate individuality and acceptance.

Whether you're young or young at heart, Drag Time Story Time is an experience that transcends age and embraces the power of storytelling to foster a sense of belonging and creativity. So, grab your tiaras, capes, and sparkles, and join us for a truly one-of-a-kind event where the magic of literature meets the artistry of drag.

2 PM

Know Your Rights: Protecting LGBTQ+ and Trans Lives Under AttackPresented by: ACLU SoCalSpeakers: Amanda Goad & Christine Parker, Senior Staff Attorneys, Gender, Sexuality, & Reproductive Justice Project (at ACLU SoCal)

Description: Join the ACLU of Southern California for a critical Know Your Rights workshop focused on the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community—especially our trans and gender-nonconforming siblings—in the current political climate. As attacks on queer and trans rights escalate nationwide, it’s more important than ever to understand your legal protections, how to navigate discrimination, and how to advocate for yourself and others.

This workshop will cover:

Your rights in schools, workplaces, and health care settings; with regard to passports and other forms of ID; and when interacting with ICE

Recent executive orders and other federal moves targeting LGBTQ+ and especially trans communities

Resources and tools to help you stay informed, empowered, and connected to the fight for equality

Whether you’re directly impacted, an ally, or just want to learn more, this workshop is for you.

3 PM

From Protest to Policy: LGBTQ+ Civic Engagement in ActionSpeakers: Erika Ruiz, IE PRISM Collective, Jacob Daruvala, Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance, Kira Pegues – Planned Parenthood Action FundPresented by: Riverside County Student Safety Coalition

Description: From the ballot box to the city council chambers, LGBTQ+ individuals have always played a critical role in shaping the future of our communities. This dynamic panel brings together activists, organizers, elected officials, and community leaders to explore the power of queer civic engagement—what it looks like, why it matters, and how we can all get involved.

Panelists will share stories from the front lines of advocacy, discuss the unique challenges facing LGBTQ+ voters and leaders, and offer practical strategies for turning passion into progress—whether it’s through voting, organizing, policy work, or running for office.

4 PM

Cut, Paste, Resist: The Queer History of ZinesSpeakers: Krista Ivy, Librarian – Crafton Hills College, Riverside Public Library TrusteePresented by: Riverside Public Library

Description: Before the internet connected queer communities, zines were the radical, rebellious lifeline that amplified LGBTQ+ voices, challenged the status quo, and fueled grassroots activism. In this interactive workshop, we’ll dive into the rich and vibrant history of zines within the LGBTQ+ rights movement—from underground publications of the ‘70s and ‘80s to the riot grrrl and queer punk scenes of the ‘90s, all the way to today’s DIY renaissance.

You'll explore how zines served (and still serve) as powerful tools for self-expression, resistance, and community building in queer culture. After our history deep-dive, you'll get hands-on and create your own mini-zine using collaging, writing, drawing, and whatever sparks your creativity. No prior experience necessary—just bring your voice, your vision, and your queer joy (or rage).

All materials provided. Come ready to learn, create, and connect.

5 PM

Transcending Labels: Understanding the Trans Experience PanelSpeakers: TBDFacilitated by: Mackenzie LussierDescription: Join us for an honest, empowering, and enlightening conversation centered on the diverse experiences of transgender and nonbinary individuals. This panel brings together trans voices from across the spectrum—activists, artists, community leaders, and everyday folks—to share personal stories, challenges, triumphs, and insights into what it means to live authentically.

Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally seeking to learn, this panel offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of gender identity, intersectionality, and the urgent issues facing the trans community today. From healthcare and legal rights to joy, resilience, and representation, no topic is off-limits.

Accessibility

The venue is ADA accessible. Spoken content on stage will have ASL interpreters. We will also have a deaf/hard-of-hearing assistance table.

Want to be involved?

Volunteers Needed!

LGBT Coffee Meetup
2025-05-17 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-06-21 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-07-19 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-08-16 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-09-20 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-10-18 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-11-15 09:30 - 11:00, 2025-12-20 09:30 - 11:00 and 4 more dates | Back to the Grind, 3575 University Ave, Riverside, California, 92501, United States
Come join people of your community for a morning of casual chat and coffee in one of the most vibing shops in Downtown Riverside. Organized by Out! Riverside, this long-running social event happens every 3rd Saturday morning of the month at Back To The Grind coffee shop on University Avenue. For over 10 years we've gathered with friends. There are regulars and new faces every month! Bring a friend. Our meetup usually brings 15-30 people depending on the time of year.

This event is not endorsed or organized by Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride. It is organized by a third party, and we are boosting the signal.

Ward 2 Arts & Culture Festival
2025-06-07 16:00 - 22:00 | Lincoln Park, 4261 Park Ave., Riverside, California, 92507, United States
This is a partner event that Riverside Pride is participating in.

This festival will be a part of the City of Riverside’s Local Vibes Event Series in partnership with the Councilmember’s Ward 2 office and the Eastside Arthouse.

Like last year, this family-friendly event will feature music performances by Kings of Rhythm and Phazze One, live painting and artist workshops, performances from local youth and our deaf community, a Cochet Car Club show, and so much more!

RivPride @ Out at the Fair - OC Fair 2025
2025-08-09 11:00 - 18:30 | OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, California, 92626, United States
This event requires a fair admission ticket to participate, available at the fair box office.

Riverside Pride will be attending as a community partner with our own booth.

From the official website: Out at the Fair® is a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates diversity and inclusiveness in a fun and festive atmosphere. The event takes place at a fairground, providing a perfect backdrop for a day filled with music, food, games, and entertainment for all ages. The main stage features a lineup of talented musicians, dancers, and, performers from a wide range of genres, giving attendees the opportunity to enjoy a diverse mix of music and entertainment.

4th Annual Cosmic Bowling Pride Party
2026-01-17 20:00 - 23:00 | Arlington Lanes, 7100 Arlington Ave, Riverside, CA, 92503, United States
Join us for our 4th annual Cosmic Bowling Pride Party! Once again, we've booked the ENTIRE Bowling Alley as safe space, so this party is going to be bigger and better than ever!

🎳 36 lanes of bowling 🎱 Game Night💃Drag Queens 🪩 Music

Drag Queens to be announced!

Entire LaneEarly Bird: $150, Regular $210includes up to 6 bowlers, bowling shoes, bowling balls*, and table games providedSingle Bowler TicketsEarly Bird: $25, Regular $35 includes bowling shoes, bowling balls*, and table games. **Groups less than 6 will be paired up with new friends on the same lane.**General AdmissionEarly Bird: $20, Regular $30includes table games. (No bowling)

*Although shoes and balls are provided by the bowling alley, on a first-come-first-served basis. Ball sizes can be limited in variety. We recommend bringing your own ball if you have one.

All attendees 7 or older must have a ticket.

Frequent Questions & Answers

Are shoes and balls provided?
Yes. Shoes and balls are provided by the bowling alley, on a first-come-first-served basis. Balls can be limited in variety in sizes. We recommend bringing your own ball if you have one.

What is the age requirements?

The event is “all-ages” and is suitable for families and kids.

All entertainment will be family friendly. Although it is “all-ages”, be aware that it will be a loud, party-like environment. There will be loud music and many people and there is a bar operated by the bowling alley.

Bowling is generally not appropriate for children under 8 due to activity level and hazards involved.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone at all times and may not be in attendance alone.

Children 6 and under do not need a ticket when accompanied by a ticketed guardian.

When will Early Bird tickets end?
Early bird tickets are limited and will be available until supplies run out or Jan 10th, whichever arrives earlier.

Will you offer a low-income ticket discount?
At this time we are still working on an option for this. Please reach out to us to inquire.

Do I have to have 6 bowlers for a Entire Lane ticket?
No, whole lanes can be used by 1-6 bowlers.

Who are the drag queens?
We're pleased to announce that Athena Kills will be joining us once again with Frida Heaux-Jugosa!

Will there be food and drink?
The bowling alley operates a concession snack bar and full service bar, which is an additional cost. You can find the venue's snack bar menu here.

What if I don't want to bowl with strangers?
One of the great things about our events is meeting new friends! If you purchase single bowler tickets, groups of less than 6 will be paired with new friends on one lane so that we have enough room for everyone to play. If you'd like to assure that your group of 5 or less does not get paired with new friends, we encourage you to purchase a “entire lane” ticket.

Street Clean Up - Merrill Ave
2026-02-21 09:00 - 11:00 | VIP Nightclub & Restaurant, 3673 Merrill Ave, Riverside, CA, 92506, United States
Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride has adopted Merrill Avenue and we need your help to keep it litter free. Join us for our street clean up every other month!

Rally Spot

We will be meeting at VIP Nightclub and Restaurant parking lot.

What to bring

Trash bags, pickers and gloves will be provided. We will also have water jugs available. Please bring your own water bottles, sunscreen and hats.
