Oregon Gay Events & Hotspots
- The Portland Pride Festival stands out as a lgbtq+Q+ gathering in Oregon usually happening in June to honor lgbtq+Q+ pride, diversity and inclusivity. The event features a parade live shows, music, delicious food options and various activities suitable for people of all ages. With its vibe and large turnout it provides a warm and accepting environment.
- Eugene Pride Festival: In Eugene situated in the region of Oregon the local lgbtq+Q+ community comes together with allies at their own Pride Festival to champion equality. Attendees can experience performances, insightful speakers, educational sessions, tasty food offerings and diverse community booths. The festival is dedicated to fostering an supportive space for all participants.
- Bends annual Pride Festival takes place towards the end of June in Oregon. The festivities include a mix of entertainment such as live music acts, captivating drag performances and showcases featuring talents. Visitors can browse through vendor stalls offering lgbtq+Q+ themed items, community resources and support services. Additionally the festival offers a family zone with engaging activities, for kids.
- Salems capital city hosts its Pride celebration known as Salem Pride. The festival spans days and offers a range of activities like parades, live performances, art displays, drag performances and community talks. Salem Pride promotes an atmosphere that encourages conversations about lgbtq+Q+ topics while embracing diversity.
- Additional lgbtq+Q+ Activities; Besides the pride festivals Oregon hosts various lgbtq+Q+ events, throughout the year. These may include film festivals, drag performances, community discussions, workshops, art displays and social gatherings. The specific events differ based on location and time of year. It's best to check local event listings or lgbtq+Q+ community websites for the most current information.
Here are some popular spots for the lgbtq+QIA+ community in Oregon;
- CC Slaughters; Nestled in the heart of Portland, CC Slaughters is a gay nightclub where you can groove on the dance floor to diverse music styles spun by energetic DJs. The club is famous for its drag shows and welcoming ambiance that draws a diverse crowd.
- Stag PDX; Located in the Old Town Chinatown area of Portland Stag PDX is a gay bar offering a laid back setting complete with a pool table, jukebox and fully stocked bar. It's a hotspot for events and karaoke nights that attract people from all walks of life.
- Silverado; Known as a go to spot for patrons in Portland Silverado boasts regular male strip shows and a friendly vibe that keeps the energy high. The bar also hosts themed events, like underwear nights providing a space for the community to gather.
- Red Cap Garage; Situated in Portlands Pearl District Red Cap Garage is an establishment where you can enjoy dancing on the spacious floor or playing pool while mingling with others. This gay bar hosts fun karaoke nights and themed parties that bring together a diverse mix of patrons.
- Embers Avenue in Portland is a established gay nightclub in the heart of the city. It boasts a dance floor, a stage for entertaining drag shows and live acts and multiple bars. The venue is famed for its vibe diverse range of events and inclusive atmosphere.
- Southside Speakeasy: Located in Ashland Southside Speakeasy is a bar that welcomes the lgbtq+Q+ community with open arms. With its feel full bar, pool tables and occasional live music gigs it serves as a gathering place for both locals and out of towners looking to unwind over drinks.
- The Wayward Lamb: Meanwhile in Eugene The Wayward Lamb stands out as a lgbtq+Q+ bar and nightclub destination. Featuring a dance floor regular drag performances and an array of themed parties and live shows it has established itself as a welcoming hub for the lgbtq+Q+ community, in Eugene.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (lgbtq+) people in the U.S. state of Oregon have the same rights and responsibilities as non-lgbtq+ people. Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Oregon, and same-sex marriage has been legal in the state since May 2014 when a federal judge declared the state's ban on such marriages unconstitutional. Previously, same-sex couples could only access domestic partnerships, which guaranteed most of the rights of marriage. Additionally, same-sex couples are allowed to jointly adopt, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the areas of employment, housing and public accommodations is outlawed in the state under the Oregon Equality Act, enacted in 2008. Conversion therapy on minors is also illegal.
Oregon is frequently referred to as one of the United States' most lgbtq+-friendly states, and is home to an active lgbtq+ community with multiple bars, clubs, venues, events and other establishments. Elected in 2016, Governor Kate Brown is the nation's first openly bisexual governor. A 2019 opinion poll conducted by the Public Religion Research Institute showed that 70% of Oregonians supported anti-discrimination legislation