Raleigh, N.C., Pride
No matter what you love, or who you love, you'll appreciate the way Raleigh's smart and savvy locals have embraced a new-fashioned vision for their historic capital area. A community that's modern by nature—home to students, professors and a young workforce in the tech and science sectors—Raleigh is passionate about the fun, lively and welcoming vibe that artists, entrepreneurs and innovators have created for all to enjoy. Endless nightlife spots, gay and lesbian bars and clubs and authentic, handcrafted experiences are ready to be discovered by LGBT visitors.
Invigorate your senses by sampling the many flavors of cutting-edge cuisine enhanced by artisan craft brews and spirits. Get your toes tapping to the sounds of emerging music and bands. Discover gifts and treasures from local boutiques. Join in on family-friendly activities and events where Raleigh's people and culture are celebrated. And, broaden your horizons through an enticing array of visual and performing arts events.
Celebrations
At least three times a year, the Raleigh area especially shows its LGBT pride through big events.
N.C. Pride at Night Festival
30 years ago, Raleigh’s first Gay Pride celebration was held on Sat., June 25, 1988. Participants, numbering more than 2,000, gathered at the North Carolina State University Memorial Belltower on Hillsborough St. and marched to Capitol Square. On Sept. 29, 2018, honor the past and celebrate the future with fun in downtown Raleigh! Learn more
Out! Raleigh 2019
Out! Raleigh is the area's annual, family-friendly street festival that celebrates the LGBT community and its allies. Organized each year by the LGBT Center of Raleigh, the festival's speakers, performers and vendors (and a Kids Zone) bring seven hours of fun and family to downtown Raleigh's Fayetteville St. district. The 2019 festival returns May 4. Learn more
Crape Myrtle Festival (CMF) 39th Annual Grand Gala and CMF39 Queen's Ball
The CMF is one of the nation's oldest ongoing AIDS fundraisers, and you can celebrate 39 years of its philanthropy during these two popular social events in summer 2019: the CMF39 Grand Gala and CMF39 Queen's Ball. The two evenings of celebration include decadent food, libations and entertainment, including live music, drag performances and more. And after the Grand Gala program, an awesome party carries on through the night. More details on 2019's events TBD! Learn more
TAG Approved hotels
Where you stay is just as important as what you do while you’re here. It’s got to fit your style, your location and of course, your budget. That’s why you’ll find 150-plus options in Raleigh, N.C. At more than a dozen TAG Approved area accommodations, you can relax in the certainty that your expectations will be met.
A Welcome to All
From our buzzing nightlife, enticing arts and entertainment, world-class shopping districts, exciting outdoor recreation and professional sports and abundance of luxury and upscale hotels, Raleigh offers a lot to see and do and extends a welcome to all visitors with open hearts, the desire to meet your needs and help you discover your own Raleigh story.
