RI PrideFest :: "Triumph and Transformation"

Providence is gearing up for the 39th Annual RI PrideFest on June 21 - the second largest celebration of its kind in New England - in recognition and support of the state's LGBT community. The theme of this year's festivities is "Triumph and Transformation," celebrating the victory of marriage equality and making strides towards greater acceptance and positive regard for the LGBT communities in Rhode Island and southern New England.

The event kicks off at noon on the Providence Waterfront on South Water Street with the largest LGBT Marketplace and Business Exposition in the region as well as features a diverse range of entertainment offerings. Headlining performers this year are "American Idol" finalist David Hernandez and dance diva Niki Haris. Packages are available for purchase online for access to the Rainbow Room VIP Lounge, which offers an up-close view of the main stage, special refreshments served from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., and a chance to win a liquor basket valued at $150-$200.

On Saturday night, the streets of Providence will be lit up by the stunning floats of an illuminated parade, the only event of its kind in New England. Participants, performers and spectators will weave their way through the streets of downtown in support of the LGBT community.

Other events held around the city this week that are centered on the PrideFest celebrations include:

RI Pride Gay Bingo at Riviera Bingo Palace
Thursday, June 19
Wear your colors and support RI Pride by playing bingo this Thursday, hosted by AIDS Care Ocean State. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. and bingo begins at 7:00 p.m. The cost to play at this 18+ is $20.

Dorothy's Disco at Dark Lady & Alley Cat
Friday, June 20
Enjoy a live concert starring The Village People and a drag show featuring Sabrina Blaze, Haley Star, Evie Vendetta, Jackie Collins, and Jacqueline DiMera as a kick off to the Pride 2014 Block Party. Doors open at 8:00 p.m. for partying until 3:00 a.m. Tickets are available at the door and general admission after 11:00 p.m. is only $10.

The Main Event at EGO
Saturday, June 21
Head to EGO Providence, the city's hottest 18+ gay dance club, for the Massive Block Party featuring DJ Paulo to culminate the venue's ProviDANCE pride celebrations. Doors open at 8:00 p.m and the EGO Box office will open at Noon for tickets. No admission will be permitted after 1:00 a.m. For other ProviDANCE events at ego visit egopvd.com/pride/.

Hangover Drag Brunch at Aspire Seasonal Kitchen
Sunday, June 22
Join Rhode Island's drag sweetheart Jacqueline DiMera, YouTube drag sensation Haley Star, Miss Gay RI 2014 and Pride Queen Ocean State 2014 for brunch at Aspire Seasonal Kitchen. Tickets are $20 per person plus tax. There is one seating only at 12:30 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling 401-512-3333 or online at www.aspirerestaurant.com.

The mission of Rhode Island Pride is to create opportunities for integrating and promoting visibility for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community. The organization works to promote equal rights and diversity through public education and the arts and provide safe opportunities and venues for people to come out and express and celebrate their sexual identities. For more information about PrideFest events and other news for the LGBT communities in Rhode Island and southern New England, please visit www.prideri.com.

The city of Providence has a strong history as an LGBT-friendly destination and welcomes visitors from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered communities. The Providence Warwick Convention and Visitor's Bureau (PWCVB) has recently partnered with "Glambassador" Haley Star to highlight the city's LGBT offerings to show why Providence is one of the best destinations for LGBT travelers.

For more information: www.goprovidence.com.