Park Circle Pride Celebrates Its Fourth Year
The vibrant Park Circle neighborhood in North Charleston, South Carolina, recently celebrated the fourth year of Park Circle Pride, a five-day event championing the LGBTQ+ community. Thousands participated in nearly 50 different activities spread out throughout the event week, reaffirming the city’s commitment to inclusivity and acceptance.
Diverse Activities for All to Enjoy
The event played host to a medley of entertaining activities, ensuring that there was something for all attendants to enjoy. Participants had the opportunity to visit drag brunches, partake in the queer youth fest, walk through a feminist vendor market, and join a bike parade among other fun activities. Several restaurants and bars in the vicinity also offered special deals and promotions, making it easier for people to enjoy the festivities.
Organizations Coming in Support
The Lowcountry chapter of Free Mom Hugs, a national organization that supports the LGBTQ+ community, was one of many groups that attended Park Circle Pride. Caitlyn McCrary, one of the chapter’s leaders, explained the importance of representation and acceptance. “South Carolina is a place that accepts and loves people, and we are here to show that and support that… y’all means all,” said McCrary.
Local Residents Show Support
Chelsea Ostop and William McClary, Park Circle residents, have been attending the event since its inception. They both identified the importance of events such as Park Circle Pride for the Charleston community in fostering inclusivity and love for the queer community. “It’s not just for the queer community, it’s for everyone. I want to see more inclusion, equality, all around, all over,” Ostop stated.
Final Day Festivities
The event concluded on a high note with the Feminist Magic Market, featuring nearly 100 women-owned small business vendors. Many of the vendors, like Baker Rogers, who owns Queer Haven Books, have been participating in the event since last year. “I think the whole event has been really set up well and it’s going great,” Rogers recounted.
The market opened with a pre-market yoga session taught by Katie Ashley. Isaac Hoke, Ashley’s son, was among the vendors at the market, offering an array of temporary tattoos and jewelry. Hoke mentioned that his entrepreneurial venture was inspired by his mother’s friend’s daughter and recounted his growth journey.
Park Circle Pride concluded at 10 p.m. on the final day, ending a week filled with festive fun, love, and support. The success of the event has the organizers and attendees looking forward to an even bigger celebration next year.
