The Rochester Pride Organizing Group (RPOG) invites the community to Rochester Pride 2026, scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026 (rain date: August 2), from 12 to 4 p.m.
The event will be held in downtown Rochester at Central Square (2 Wakefield Street) and Hanson Street. This community-focused event will feature inclusive vendors, speakers, live music, and activities. It is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, its culture, achievements, and activism. Everyone is welcome, and the event is pet- and family-friendly.
Speakers for the event include Rochester Mayor Chuck Grassie, Somersworth Mayor Matt Gerding, New Hampshire State Representative Amy Malone, New Hampshire State Representative Billie Butler, and other elected regional officials.
Performances will be provided by the Rochester Opera House, local drag queen Miss Samantha Honey, DownStage Centre’s Winter Guard, and the Leftist Marching Band.
Following Samantha Honey’s performance, Rochester Pride will host its “Lipsync 4 Ur Life” contest, where participants can strut their stuff for a chance to win prizes. No pre-registration is required. Those interested may register at the Rochester Pride main table on the day of the event.
The Rochester Pride Poetry Contest returns with this year’s theme, “We Belong Here.” Attendees are invited to read the submitted poems and vote for the winning entry at the Rochester Pride main table.
More than 35 local vendors are expected to participate in this year’s event. Food vendors will include Mr. Sippy’s BBQ, One Love Caribbean Cuisine, and Hong Asian Noodle Bar.
The Franklin Gallery at RiverStones Custom Framing will be open throughout the month of August and will feature a New Hampshire LGBTQ+ history exhibit during the event.
This year’s Rochester Pride is generously sponsored by PFLAG of New Hampshire and Rochester Main Street. Contest prizes have been provided by Jetpack Comics & Games and the Rochester Opera House.
More information about Rochester Pride 2026 is available on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/share/18i2NUKRZR/.
The Rochester Pride Organizing Group can be reached at rochesterprideog@gmail.com.
