Celebrate Pride in the Berkshires: A Summer of Joy, Community, and Belonging

The Berkshires have long been known for world-class art, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming spirit. This summer, that spirit shines brighter than ever as we celebrate Pride across the county. From the muraled streets of Pittsfield to the lush gardens of Naumkeag, the region is rolling out the rainbow carpet for a season of dance, culture, and community.

A Decade of Growth and Visibility

Pride in the Berkshires has seen a remarkable transformation over the last ten years. What began as a small, local gathering has blossomed into a county-wide celebration. Michael Taylor, president of the board of Berkshire Pride, reflects on this journey, noting that the expansion is deeply rooted in the desires of the people who live here.

“We started as a smaller event in Pittsfield and we’ve obviously grown tremendously over these past 10 years,” Taylor said. “It is community-driven. Folks are coming out and saying, ‘How do we get this in my town?’”

For Taylor, this growth is about more than just parties—it’s about the visibility and support from the community. 

“People and businesses support Pride because that’s who they are and Berkshire Pride is part of the overall fabric of the region,” he said. “I think folks do look to us. They trust in us because our values and mission are aligned with the community.” 

Berkshire Pride.

A Welcoming Home for All

This feeling of growing inclusivity is echoed by new residents who have found a home in the hills. Tricia MacKenzie, owner of Feel Good Haus, a “modern apothecary” for niche shopping in Great Barrington (and 2026 Pride planning committee member), moved to the region with her family and has seen firsthand how the community embraces its diverse members.

“My family and I moved to the Berkshires four years ago, and we’ve been so moved by the community’s commitment to making everyone feel they belong,” said MacKenzie. “Seeing how Pride has expanded to include towns like Lee and Lenox is a beautiful reflection of that welcoming spirit, and we are so proud to support that visibility.”

Berkshire Pride

June Event Highlights

Whether you are looking for a high-energy dance floor or a thoughtful museum tour, there is something for everyone this June and beyond:

• Lenox Pride (June 6): The first (hopefully annual) family-friendly celebration filled with music, activities, and community connection. From creative kids’ corners to live music and local sponsors, celebrate Pride at Lilac Park, 10 am – 2 pm.
• Queering the Clark’s Collection (June 7): Join The Clark in Williamstown for a unique tour that explores the collection through an LGBTQ+ lens.
• North Adams Pride Night (June 12): Head north for a free night of celebration in the shadow of Mount Greylock.
• Lee Pride & MASS MoCA Community Day (June 13): It’s a big day for the Berkshires! Enjoy a pride market, live music, dancing, and other community-driven festivities at Lee Pride, or head to MASS MoCA in North Adams for a Community Free Day of art-making, guided tours, talks, and even a puppet show!
• The Berkshire Pride Parade & Celebration (June 20): Don’t miss the signature event of the season! The Pride Parade marches through downtown Pittsfield, followed by the Annual Pride celebration at the Pittsfield Common.
• Naumkeag Tea Dance (June 21): The legendary Tea Dance returns to Stockbridge with expanded hours! Enjoy sets by D’Jay Tilda and crowd-favorite DJ RuBot of Occupy the Disco. With two DJ sets, food trucks, and one of the most vibrant settings in the hills, it’s the ultimate summer dance party.

Summer-Long Offerings & Niche Finds

The celebration doesn’t end when June does. Keep the momentum going with these unique Berkshire offerings:

• Pride Weekend at Jacob’s Pillow (July 11-12): The world-renowned dance festival continues its tradition of celebrating LGBTQ+ artists and community in a breathtaking outdoor setting.
• The “entities” at Ventfort Hall: There are plenty of chances to encounter spirits and revelations at this iconic Gilded Age mansion in Lenox. Their summer calendar offers regular ghost tours, Tarot 101, amazing Tea & Talks (think historic gardens, the building of war ships), and so much more in a grand, mystery-filled setting.  
• Art, art everywhere: There is an overwhelming number of art shows, gallery openings, and workshops in the Berkshires. The region has always been a place for creatives and fortunately, Art in the Berkshires has compiled an incredible hub of venues, events, and local artists to search and discover – and they have a brick & mortar gallery space in Great Barrington.  

North Adams Pride. Photo by The Porches Inn.

Plan Your Getaway

From the “first-ever” celebrations to decade-old traditions, Pride in the Berkshires is a testament to a community that shows up for one another. As Taylor puts it, this growth is possible “because of volunteers and people in the community who are really seeking it out.” 

You belong here #intheBerkshires!