Logo for Haverhill’s Pride parade.
Haverhill’s first-ever Pride parade takes place the first Saturday in June, kicking off the season’s first Art Walk in downtown Haverhill.
The Haverhill Pride Parade, in the words of local LGBTQ+ advocates and community leaders, “aims to create an inclusive, welcoming space where people of all identities can celebrate freely and proudly.”
“I am happy to work with a wonderful group of citizens here in Haverhill to bring a Pride Parade to our city. As a gay man who also happens to be a city councilor, I know how important it is—now more than ever—to show solidarity and support for the LGBTQ+ community locally. I look forward to a positive event and a meaningful celebration of community, understanding, and love on June 7,” said Haverhill City Council President Thomas J. Sullivan in a release Monday.
Organizers say the event will feature local organizations, businesses, performers and community groups marching together in support of equality. It will start Saturday, June 7, at 12:30 p.m., at City Hall, with the annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony and continue at 1 p.m. into downtown Haverhill.
Creative Haverhill Director Erin Padilla welcomed the new combination of a Pride Parade and Haverhill Art Walk Program. “This isn’t just a parade—it’s a movement…It is truly an honor to get to celebrate our local arts, culture and community specifically through the lens of Pride, which at its core uplifts love, inclusion, beauty and the power of authentic self-expression,” she said.
Following the parade, attendees can continue celebrating by exploring the Art Walk, from 2-6 p.m., a self-guided tour featuring local artists, pop-up exhibits, live music and interactive art experiences throughout the downtown. There will be family-friendly activities and community booths.
Those who wish to march in the parade may signup using an online form here. Anyone with questions may email [email protected].