"New Hope Celebrates" Marks 20th Year With Bigger, Better PrideFest

NEW HOPE, PA — In celebration of its 20th anniversary, New Hope Celebrates (NFC) has announced plans for a bigger and better PrideFest in 2023.

Throughout the month of May in the neighboring river towns of New Hope and Lambertville, New Jersey, NHC will host its annual Flag Unfurling, Pride Parade, Pride Fair, PrideFest Live, Best Cocktail Contest, and other events for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community.

“Our 20th anniversary is a particularly meaningful and nostalgic time for me, as NHC founder and leader for the first decade. I am so proud that what started as a one day affair for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, has turned into a month of celebratory, diverse, and inclusive events that offer something for everyone," said Daniel Brooks, founder of NHC. "Our journey carries on thanks to generations of community members who populate the NHC Board, each committed to the promotion of our unique area. Bravo to all former and present NHC Board members, volunteers, and the public who turn out every year for our Pride."

Melissa Patterson, President of NHC, added, “With the increase in attacks against the LGBTQ+
community in our schools and our legislature, it is ever so important for us to continue to find our pride, show up, and represent. As NHC celebrates its 20th year of existence, we hope that everyone will come out and flood the streets with pride to showcase just how unique and amazing our towns are in their diversity and inclusiveness for all."

Founded in 2003, NHC is a non-profit organization on a mission of bringing people together to share in a celebration of inclusivity, creativity, diversity, and sustainability in New Hope and Lambertville. NHC’s team of volunteers has grown pride from a one day event to a month long PrideFest. In 2005, they created OUT in October to honor National Gay History Month featuring the High Heel Drag Race and other fall events. Their programs, such as the Artist & Author Series, book clubs, tea dances, heritage months, and many other events throughout the calendar year contribute to their vision of a society free from prejudice, discrimination and hate.

“We are fortunate to live and celebrate in a community that accepts and embraces diversity. While we celebrate we must also remember to thank those who paved the way for us as well as pay it forward and continue to drive for equality and inclusiveness across the LGBTQ+ community. Please join us as we celebrate our 20 year anniversary and come 'Find Your Pride' in New Hope,” said Sharon Fronabarger, former president and current advisor to the board.

PrideFest is NHC’s month-long LGBTQ+ Pride event, which draws in more than 15,000 people
annually. The Flag Unfurling of the 25 foot by 15 foot Progress Flag over the Starbucks building at 4A E Bridge Street in New Hope will occur on May 13 at 11:30 a.m. with a reception to follow at
Martine’s Riverhouse. The Pride Parade will be held on May 20 at 11 a.m. marching from New Jersey across the Delaware River to Pennsylvania with more than 1,300 participants from local businesses, nonprofits, national marching bands, and floats, plus NHC’s 100 foot Rainbow Equality Flag.

Immediately afterwards, the Pride Fair takes place in Pride Park at the corner of New and South Main streets featuring local LGBTQ+ artists, food vendors, nonprofits, professional services, and retailers.

PrideFest Live, an outdoor concert with live entertainment, will run from 12 to 5 p.m. The Best Cocktail Contest invites guests ages 21+ to try signature drinks made with Tito's Handmade Vodka and Corralejo Tequila at participating establishments and cast a vote for their favorite cocktail all month. There will be additional artistic events, educational activities, parties, and more throughout the month. Click here for more information.

Applications are open for:

● Pride Parade Participants - The parade is open to everyone who wishes to participate! Simply follow the steps to apply on behalf of your business or organization. The NHC Pride Parade is a fun event for visitors and residents. Registration is due by May 1.
● Pride Fair Vendors - This fun-filled family event celebrates diversity. Visitors will find vendors of crafts, jewelry, and clothing, information from local organizations, as well as samples, giveaways, and activities. Dance to local and national DJ’s, musicians, and performers. Vendor applications are due by April 21.
● Partner Opportunities - Your participation at any level matters. In exchange for your financial support, receive promotional consideration and exposure to NHC’s loyal LGBTQ+ consumers. All contributions are tax-deductible.
● Individual Contributors - Champions of Pride are a select few who generously choose to support NHC’s mission, vision, and values through donations. There are four levels of membership, which all include unique benefits. Your donation to NHC could be matched dollar for dollar by your employer!
● Event Volunteers - The NHC Board has specific committees to oversee every PrideFest event, each chaired by a Board Member with assistance from volunteers in the community. If you wish to work at any PrideFest events, email volunteers@newhopecelebrates.com.

Questions? Email info@newhopecelebrates.com.