Lineup Announced for Philly Black Pride 2015

From last year’s Sunday Day Party Finale | Philadelphia Black Pride courtesy of Brick City Varsity.

Philly Black Pride Weekend (PBP), called #PhillyBlackPride2k15,” is back for its 16th year with a theme that “Celebrates Leadership While Championing Diversity.” According to PBP Vice President and Pride Weekend Organizer D’Ontace Keyes, the concept for this year’s multi-day shindig is to “push past the antiquated stereotype of a ‘Pride celebration’ so that we can be transformative in the way we present events for LGBTQ people of color.” So, instead of one big, rainbow flag-waving hoopla, Keyes and his fellow organizers have put together a series of events scattered throughout the city—from the Rittenhouse Ethical Society and Ladder 15 to the Kimmel Center—each day of the festival, which takes place April 22nd to 26th. The fresh approach, Keyes hopes, will provide a “sense of a new beginning in a fresh direction.”

Here’s the lineup of this year’s festivities, for all you plan-ahead types: (keep in mind that nightlife events and parties are coming soon.

Wednesday, April 22nd

#A1PHA Monologues
Presented by Philadelphia Black Pride and Mazzoni Center’s #A1PHA Project: The #A1PHA monologue is a collective performance showcase that celebrates the voice and creativity of young black gay voices of Philadelphia. Rittenhouse Ethical Society, 5-8pm.

8th Annual “One Night Stand” Open Mic
Join Philly’s finest spoken-word artists as they share their thoughts and passions on the mic. Cash Prize to “Best Slam” individual. Ladder 15, 8-11pm.

Thursday, April 23rd

TOAST: SOCIETY LIGHTS 2k15
Our 3rd annual recognition of individuals with distinctive work that continues to shine light and strengthen the creative and talented voice of LGBTQ people of color. The 4th annual Youth Scholarship and 3rd annual Politician of the Year will be presented during this event. Miss Tootsies RBL, 6-9pm,

Friday, April 24th

Diary of a Legend …
Secrets Revealed Mini Ball Deluxe: presented by Philadelphia Black Pride, Legendary Erica Kane and Dashaun Xclusive Lanvin. A Ballroom community-orientated event where the celebration FACE, SEX SIREN, PERFORMANCE, & FASHION is met with creativity and cash prizes. First District Plaza, 7pm-1am.

Saturday, April 25th

Gentlemen’s Brunch
The Gentlemen’s Brunch is a daytime event geared toward bringing together men of sartorial success for networking, fine dining and engaging dialogue. Smokin’ Betty’s, noon-3pm.

Ladies’ Luncheon
The Ladies’ Luncheon is an afternoon event geared toward building sorority amongst ladies with opportunities of sisterhood and community service and soul food. Miss Tootsies RBL, 2-5pm.

Sunday, April 26th

Weekend Wrap Up & Day Party
Ending the weekend with a bang. Transforming the aesthetic of our tradition community wrap-up, Philadelphia Black Pride and Social Life Entertainment will bring Philadelphia Black Pride Weekend Wrap-Up premiere indoor and outdoor entertainment for all ages. Kimmel Center of Performing Arts Lounge & Hamilton Garden, 3-8pm.

Out-of-town guests can have the opportunity to stay in Philly at a discounted price, thanks to host hotel Home2 by the Hilton. Suites are going at $149 per night, with check in on April 23rd and checkout on the 27th. Go here to make your reservation before the deadline on March 26th. Be sure to use promo code “PBG.”

Philly Black Pride is always looking for volunteers to help out with #PhillyBlackPride2K15. If you’re interested, you can go here to sign up.