Welcome to the Black Renaissance: 10 events to celebrate Black Pride in Charlotte
July celebrations are in full swing, as this month marks Black Pride in Charlotte. While the annual tradition started in 2005, it has continued to hold up a safe space to recognize and celebrate diversity within the Charlotte LGBTQ+ community.
This year’s pride comes at a time where “nearly all of the trendiest events, functions, celebrations and festivals in the Queen City are being spearheaded by Black LGBTQ+ Charlotteans,” Charlotte Black Pride wrote in an Instagram post.
This year, Charlotte Black Pride’s theme, BLACK RENAISSANCE – Made For Now – hones both the essence of Beyoncé’s homage to the LGBTQ+ community and family-oriented Black Pride traditions.
“Much like the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920-30s which was pioneered by Black queer folk, nowadays Charlotte is experiencing an artistic & cultural awakening that is being (primarily) led by the Black LGBTQ+ community,” Charlotte Black Pride said.
You can volunteer or donate if you’re interested in supporting Charlotte Black Pride’s mission of promoting LGBTQ+ pride and “building social awareness.”
Here is a list of events you can join in on to celebrate Black Pride month Charlotte (and don’t forget, the Charlotte Pride Parade is in August):
Charlotte Black Pride Pageant
Location: 933 Louise Ave Suite 125, Charlotte, NC 28204
When: Doors open at 7 p.m. on Sunday, July 16
What to know: The Mr. & Miss Charlotte Black Pride Pageant was created in 2005 and revived by Quan Rutledge Wade in 2013. At this year’s pageant, hosted by Dorae Saunders, there will be interviews, red carpet fashion and talent events. Special guests being honored include Malayia Chanel Iman, Ken Sings and Emerald K. Phoenix.
If you’re interested in entering the pageant, you can register at 1 p.m. on Sunday for an entry fee of $20. After registering, you will be required to attend an interview at 2 p.m.
Cost: Admission is $10.
Charlotte Black Pride Made for Now Wellness Party
Location: Dupp & Swat, 1824 Statesville Ave., Suite 105, Charlotte, NC 28206
When: Monday, July 17 from 7-10 p.m.
What to know: This wellness party taking place at the beginning of the week will feature vendors, wellness experts and raffle giveaways. But make sure to “dress to move,” as this Black Pride event will get you thinking about your “mental, emotional, spiritual and physical health.”
Cost: Admission is free.
CENTERSTAGE: “Summer Renaissance”
Location: IV Stones Event Center by Destini, 933 Louise Ave Suite 125, Charlotte, NC 28204
When: Thursday, July 20 from 7-11 p.m.
What to know: At this tribute event to Beyoncé, in both song, dance and visual art, there will be vendors and food trucks. In addition, special guest visual artist DeNeer Davis will be in attendance, and there will also be a cash bar, raffle giveaways and a digital photo booth.
Cost: Admission is $20.
Charlotte Black Pride “Made for Now” Peace Rally
Location: First Ward Park, 301 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28202
When: Tuesday, July 18 from 6-8 p.m.
What to know: As social justice issues continue to be at the forefront of the Black LGBTQ+ community, Charlotte Black Pride invites you to a demonstration meant to strengthen the resolve. Along with its theme, “The Culture Wars: Weaponizing LGBTQ+ Identity,” the rally will feature both spoken word and vocal performance.
Cost: Admission is free.
Charlotte Black Pride Townhall - Renaissance Film Noire
Location: 100 Beatties Ford Rd., Charlotte, NC 28216
When: Wednesday, July 19 to 7-10 p.m.
What to know: At this Film Noire screening, “Black Rainbow Love” shares accounts from real people within the Black LGBTQ+ community whose “stories aren’t being told, seen, shared or discussed,” according to Cincinnati City Beat, a local arts publication in Ohio. In addition to raffle giveaways and complimentary refreshments, the documentary’s creator, Angela Harvey, will be in attendance for the screening and discussion.
Cost: Admission is free.
Charlotte Black Pride Meet-n-Greet Reception
Location: 201 S. McDowell St., Charlotte, NC 28204
When: Friday, July 21 from 7-10 p.m.
What to know: At this Black pride event, you can expect to experience a live DJ along with live poetry. You’ll have the opportunity to meet new Charlotte Black Pride Board Members, enjoy performances by Charlotte Black Pride’s Royal court and groove to vocal performances.
Cost: Admission is free.
Charlotte Black Pride Expo Extravaganza
Location: 201 S. McDowell St., Charlotte, NC 28204
When: Saturday, July 22 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
What to know: At the Charlotte Black Pride Expo Extravaganza, there will be entertainment, along with 40 business and community vendors.
Cost: Admission is free.
Summer Renaissance Kiki Ball
Location: 201 S. McDowell St., Charlotte, NC 28204
When: Saturday, July 22 from 5-8 p.m.
What to know: At the event presented by Charlotte Black Pride and Legendary Daddy Brickz and commentated by Big Mama Marie Laveu, contestants will compete for $1,000 in cash prizes.
If you’re interested in competing, you should keep in mind that “all categories are to be brought in a Afro-Pop or Afro Futuristic inspired look.”
Categories include: Face, Sex Siren, Realness, Runway and Performance.
Cost: Tickets are free.
Queen Sugar Bash
Location: 6800 Rambling Rose Dr., Charlotte, NC 28212
When: Saturday, July 22 from 6-10 p.m.
What to know: The third annual Queen Sugar Bash is a festival celebrating LGBTQ+ People of Color in Visual & Performing Arts. The festival, presented by Holiday Wish Foundation, will feature dueling DJs and live music.
Cost: General admission is $20.
Black Renaissance “Made for Now” Family Reunion
Location: 2136 Central Ave., Charlotte, NC 28205
When: Sunday, July 23, from 2-6 p.m.
What to know: The family reunion will have complimentary food items like BBQ, vegan dogs and hot dogs, along with a DJ playing R&B, house and hip-hop music. And there will be quite a few fun games to enjoy, so bring your family along. But make sure to bring your own blankets, chairs, refreshments and maybe a tent.
Cost: Admission is free.
This story was originally published July 14, 2023 at 5:30 AM.
