Philadelphia Gay News: Philly PrideAF brings opera, drag cabaret and queer karaoke across the city
- Jul 2
- 2 min read
April 14, 2026 | Philadelphia Gay News
Six Philadelphia-based organizations are bringing a brand-new, arts-focused Pride festival to Philadelphia this June, celebrating queer artists and artistry with a unique, collaborative approach.
The Philly Pride Arts Festival, referred to by the more playful title Philly PrideAF, will be a month-long celebration at myriad locations across the city and will include various performances, community activities, outdoor events, concerts and more.
The independent arts organizations involved in Philly PrideAF include Altissimo Arts, Cross Keys Theatre Collective, East Passyunk Opera Project (ePOP), Liberty City Arts (LCA), Prismatic Arts Ensemble and Wear Yellow Proudly (WYP).
“For many people in the queer community, art plays a central role in their expression and can be a way to find joy in their identity and share their experiences,” said Liberty City Arts Executive Director Samual Keeler. “Through the Philly Pride Arts Festival, we hope to create a welcoming environment that celebrates our queer community and its deep connection to classical music and vocal arts. We are so excited to have our first festival this year and hope it is the first of many to come.”
Jesus Garcia, Artistic Director and Director of Audience Engagement at ePOP, echoed similar sentiments.
“What started as an idea for a single Pride concert quickly grew into our Philly Pride Arts Festival,” Garcia said. “I couldn’t be more proud of the work we’ve all done and the collaborative nature of our inter-org relationships. We can’t wait to share these incredible events and performances with our city and our queer communities.”
“Philly is the home we love, and it feels so special to be able to give that love back in such a meaningful way. Things are rough in our world at the moment, so we feel privileged to provide some momentary and meaningful levity for our community,” Garcia added.
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