HARTFORD, Conn. — When you think about pride celebrations, you typically think they are during the month of June when it’s usually celebrated, but not here in Hartford.
All weekend long the city has been celebrating in Pride, ending with highlighting a few locally owned LGBTQ+ businesses.
Hartford Pride Fest is an established Hartford tradition.
“Our big event is in September, and that was done with the purpose of not having to compete with cities like New York, Boston, and Providence. A lot of people were going to those cities to celebrate,” said Vice President of Hartford Pride Fest and former mayor Pedro Segarra.
Every second Saturday in September since 2009, you can find pride, love, and fun in abundance at the fest.
“We had over 6,000 people march through yesterday,” said Segarra.
On Sunday, the celebration continued. A pop-up called “Pride on Pratt” was held at the local Pratt Street business, Gentle Bull Shop.
“Who wouldn’t jump on this bandwagon of pride because this is something that is near and dear to us as humans and what our business kind of represents. So, we should be able to put our footprint in something that could be beautiful,” said Sarah Fernandic.
This event gave a spotlight to other locally owned LGBTQ+ businesses.
“To have businesses like this to allow me to showcase my work is what allows artists to prosper,” said Hannah Francis.
President of Hartford Pride Fest Charlie Ortiz said that’s what it’s all about.
“To bring awareness and love and that compassion we have with each other,” said Charlie Ortiz.
What better way to do that than an unaccustomed Pride Month?
“It kind of gives us, as a community in Hartford, to celebrate on our own and on our own terms,” said Fernandic.
“I think having this allows us a little cozy, comfort pride,” said Francis.
DeAndria Turner is a multi-media journalist at FOX61 News. She can be reached at dturner@fox61.com.
---
Have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com.
----
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.