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Pride 365 Block Party Celebrates Joy, Wellness, and Intersectionality
The Perry Square event will focus on community care and uplift Black and Brown voices
4 hours ago
J Visionary
Erie Pride 365 will be hosting their second annual Pride Block Party in Perry Square. Organizer Dalen Hooks (40 Under 40 Class of 2025) of Central Outreach shares that this free, family event will be a chance for Black and Brown queer voices to be uplifted.
SATURDAY, AUG. 9
Downtown Erie will come alive as Erie Pride 365 hosts the Pride Block Party in Perry Square. In collaboration with Compton's Table and Erie's Black Wall Street, this free, family-friendly event will be a chance for Black and Brown LGBTQIA+ voices to be publicly uplifted.
"We're creating a space where people feel safe, seen, and celebrated," says organizer Dalen Hooks, who co-founded Pittsburgh Pride before returning to Erie to open Central Outreach Erie. The 2025 40 Under 40 honoree explained, "My hope is that people leave this event not just joyful, but empowered – knowing they matter, and that justice and joy can coexist."
The musical headliner will be Pittsburgh's Money Mook Dawg, a trans rapper who recently graced the main stage of Pittsburgh Pride. His vibrant visuals blend with a fearless lyricism making for energetic multimedia performances. Erie's own Brittany Morton will provide a soulful set, preceded by HomeboyMusic, and a bass-heavy backdrop by DJ Jaden2Waavy. The legendary Shea D'Heaux and Fasha Doll will also light up the stage during Drag Hour.
The day will feature two interactive stretch workshops from Erie Arts & Culture, as well as on-site wellness resources (including HIV/STI testing and PrEP education) courtesy of Central Outreach Erie. It will also see the debut of the Erie Pride 365's Stamp of Approval, recognizing local organizations who have completed S.O.G.I.E. (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Expression) and People & Belonging training.
Erie Gay News and the Erie County Human Relations Commission will have booths set up, in addition to many businesses featuring LGBTQ+ owners.
"Erie Pride 365 isn't just about identity – it's about liberation, joy, and access" noted Hooks. "By blending visibility with public health awareness, the block party reflects the belief that Pride should be inclusive, affirming, and healing for everyone."
Noon to 8 p.m. // Perry Square, Downtown Erie // Free // All Ages // For more information, visit eriepride.org
Erie Pride 365, Compton's Table, and Erie's Black Wall Street are both participating in Erie Gives Day on Tuesday, Aug. 12. To donate visit eriegives.org