Pride month may be over, but North Carolina FC and NC Courage are continuing the celebration throughout July. They’re teaming up with Harmony: NC LGBT Allied Chamber of Commerce, LGBTQ Center of Raleigh, and RTP DEI Collective to host a pride festival on Fri., July 15 before the Courage’s 7:30 p.m. match against Angel City FC.
Before the soccer match, fans are encouraged to explore local vendors, artists, and LGBTQ-owned businesses that will be set up outside of the stadium.
What to expect:
- 100+ local vendors
- Live entertainment
- Food and drinks available for purchase
- Plenty of soccer: For the first time, NC Courage will take on Angel City FC on Fri., July 15 at 7:30 p.m. Can’t make it? North Carolina FC will celebrate Pride during its game vs. Union Omaha on Sat., July 9 at 7 p.m.
- Stay after the match for fireworks
Cost:
- The festival is free and open to the public.
- Parking is $15 with a portion of proceeds going to community partners (cash only at the gate; digital passes available to buy online in advance).
Keep reading to get to know a few of the Triangle’s LGBTQ-friendly + LGBTQ-owned businesses that Raleighites can support during Pride and beyond.
Urban Pothos
The shop is a plant lover’s dream. | Photo provided by Urban Pothos LLC
Urban Pothos is an eclectic houseplant shop with unique plants and a classroom space for workshops. The shop is Latinx and LGBTQ-owned and located at 714 W. Peace St. (next to Peace Street Market). Pro tip: If you don’t have a green thumb and your plants are looking a little sad, book a 30-minute, in-home plant consultation with the Urban Pothos team to assess your plants’ needs.
Legends Nightclub
Since 1991, Legends Nightclub has been a staple for LGBTQ nightlife in the Triangle, ft. everything from drag shows to exciting entertainment. Leading the LGBTQ nightclub scene, this club features a massive dance floor perfect for cutting a rug.
The Green Monkey
The Green Monkey hosts numerous events including drag shows, wine tastings, trivia + more. | Photo provided by The Green Monkey
The Green Monkey is owned and operated by husband duo Rusty Sutton and Drew Temple. Since it started under a tent at the Raleigh Flea Market at the NC State Fairgrounds in 2007, The Green Monkey has undergone a few transformations. Now a mix of neighborhood bar, bottle shop, and gift shop, The Green Monkey is a beloved watering hole for Raleighites.
Work.
All smiles after a night at Work. | Photo provided by Work.
Work. is a newer LGBTQ-friendly bar and event space in downtown Raleigh. The nightclub features a large dance floor (that’s wheelchair accessible), tasteful lighting, and plenty of food and drink options.
Question:
Want to shout out your favorite LGBTQ-friendly or LGBTQ-owned business in the Triangle? Show them some love here, and we’ll add them to our list.*
