From arts to zines, a guide to Pride Month events in Merced
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Merced hosts multiple Pride events throughout June, including family and 21+ offerings.
- Merced Main Library and partners will hold a free Pride kickoff zine fest on June 13.
- Central Valley Pride plans a June 28 Merced Theatre screening and open-mic event.
Pride Month has begun and Merced has plenty of events planned to celebrate throughout June.
Between low-key crafting events, a family-friendly day in the park, and a 21-and-older night at the Partisan on Main Street, there are offerings for every age and energy level.
Pride Month Bandana Decorating at the Livingston Library
On Tuesday, June 9, from 5 to 6 p.m., the Livingston Library will host a free bandanna decorating party. It is open to all ages. Bandanas and decorating supplies will be provided until they run out.
Pride Kickoff Zine Fest at the Merced Main Library
The next weekend, LGBTQ Merced is hosting a pride kickoff Zine Fest at the Merced Main Library on June 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Zines are self-published, independent mini-magazines that are often photocopied into physical prints for circulation. They typically embrace a “do-it-yourself” ethos and are distributed in small numbers.
The fair is free to both zine distributors and visitors.
The event is held in partnership with Red Sky Comics, 100% Comics and the Merced County Library.
Pride at the Partisan with DJs Lita Lo and Stariatzi
Also on June 13, the Partisan on Merced’s Main Street will host “Pride at the Partisan,” featuring “sounds by Lita Lo & Stariatzi.” This event is for people over 21, and the cover charge is $5.
Merced Pride at the Park
On June 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., CalPride Valle Central is hosting a free, sober, all-ages event at Applegate Park. The day will include food, live music and a chance to connect with community from around the county.
Prideflix & Pop Off at Merced Theatre
At the end of the Month, Central Valley Pride will host a double event at the Merced Theatre on June 28. First up will be a screening of the family-friendly 2022 film “Strange World,” which introduced Walt Disney Animation Studios’ first openly gay main character. Second will be a “Pop Off” open mic where “anything that can be done at a mic is welcome.”
The organizers encourage would-be participants to bring any performance, including poetry, spoken word, singing, comedy, instruments, magic, and more to share with the community.
The movie will begin at 3 p.m., the open-mic event is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m.
More LGBTQ Community Events
In addition to the celebrations, there are a number of community resources available to members of the Merced LGBTQ community. CalPride Valle Central’s calendar for the month also includes weekly transgender support groups, LGBTQ support groups and activites for teens.
LGBTQ Merced hosts recurring events including a community closet at McNamara Skate Park every Sunday and a silent book club the first Sunday of every month.
And if you’re still looking for more pride events, the festivities will continue in September when Central Valley Pride hosts its annual PRIDEfest on Sept. 12 in downtown Merced.
