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.
Crape Myrtle Festival (CMF) 40th Annual Grand Gala
The CMF is one of the nation's oldest ongoing AIDS fundraisers, and you can celebrate 40 years of its philanthropy during the Grand Gala in summer 2020. The evening of celebration includes decadent food, libations and entertainment, including live music, drag performances and more. After the Grand Gala program, an awesome party carries on through the night. More details on 2020's event TBD! Learn more
Out! Raleigh Pride 2020
Out! Raleigh Pride is the area's annual, family-friendly street festival that celebrates the LGBT community and its allies, and the festival celebrates 10 years in 2020! Organized each year by the LGBT Center of Raleigh, the festival's speakers, performers and vendors (and a Kids Zone) bring a day of fun and family to downtown Raleigh's Fayetteville Street district. This year's event will be held Aug. 9! Learn more
N.C. Pride at Night Festival
30-plus 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. In Sept. 2020, attendees can honor the past and celebrate the future with fun in downtown Raleigh (speeches, live music, drag show, pageants and more)! 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.
