June is Pride Month, and as has become tradition, a whole slate of events are scheduled in Bangor.
Here’s a list of the major events from Bangor Pride to help you get out and celebrate, whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community or merely an ally.
Pride Greendrinks
Bangor Greendrinks is co-hosting the event at Bangor Beer Co. from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9. The free event features music by DJ ICE GHO$T, a face-painting station, a “best dressed” festive Pride outfit contest, and local food and drinks. Bring your own cup or glass and an ID if you want to drink. Donations support the Green Grants program for local environmental initiatives.
Pride Paddle at Hirundo Wildlife Refuge
Registered Maine Guide Clark Tate and naturalist Brianna Guy will lead an inclusive paddle on Pushaw Stream through Hirundo Wildlife Refuge in Alton from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. on Saturday, June 13. The two-hour trip will give participants an opportunity to take in the beauty of nature and learn about queerness in the natural world. The event is free for those who bring their own equipment or $10 an hour to rent a kayak or canoe along with safety gear. Pre-registration is required, and participants will meet at Gate 3 off Hudson Road.
Tie-Dye with Pride & the BARN
The Bangor Area Recovery Network, aka the BARN, is hosting the free, family-friendily event at its location on Center Street in Brewer from 2-4 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17. Participants can bring their own items to tie-dye. Dye will be provided, and there will be a limited supply of bandanas available.
Story and Craft Time Launch
This family-friendly storytime will be held on Sunday, June 21, with the location within Bangor only disclosed to registrants. The inclusive storytelling will center LGBTQ+ voices, and is geared toward families with young children. There also will be a hands-on craft session afterward. Anyone who wants to attend can email hello@bangorpride.com for more information.
Outside with Pride Queer Ecologies Nature Walk
The second annual nature walk exploring non-heteronormative animals, plants and fungi within local ecosystems will be held at noon Sunday, June 21 at Walden-Parke Preserve in Bangor. It’s being led by volunteer ecology educator and Maine Master Naturalist Nola Prevost and is free, although you must pre-register with the Bangor Land Trust.
Bangor Pride Parade and Festival
The annual Bangor Pride Parade and Festival will be held on the Bangor Waterfront on Saturday, June 27. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature vendors, resources, a children and family area, a community art project and entertainment on the main stage from noon to 4 p.m. The parade is scheduled for 11 a.m. Admission is free and open to all community members.
Charlie Howard Memorial Vigil & Walk
A gathering honoring the memory and legacy of Charlie Howard will be held at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 28. The 23-year-old Howard was killed on July 7, 1984 after three teenagers threw him over a bridge on State Street into the Kenduskeag Stream because he was gay. The event features coordinated walking routes to the Kenduskeag Stream Bridge, including paths for faith communities and a secular route from the downtown. It will conclude with a vigil and white rose ceremony at the bridge. Groups interested in coordinating a route can contact hello@bangorpride.com.