Get Ready for PRIDE: 7 Things to Do in Saugatuck/Douglas
Get ready for an unforgettable PRIDE Week in Saugatuck/Douglas, where the vibe is joyful, and everyone is welcome. Packed with ways to connect, reflect, and let loose, there’s something for every mood and moment. Whether you’re here to celebrate solidarity, meet kindred spirits, or just have a great time, this is your week to feel fully seen and feel the love. From live music and dancing to thoughtful discussions and festive parades, here are seven ways to make the most of PRIDE Week, June 1–7, in the Art Coast® of Michigan.
1. Dance Your Heart Out at the PRIDE Tea Dance – Sunday, June 1
Kick off the festivities at 4 p.m. with the iconic Pride Tea Dance at The Dunes Resort. This lively Sunday afternoon tradition brings together the LGBTQ+ community and allies for music, dancing, and uninhibited fun in a welcoming space that always radiates joy. Expect great beats and that unmistakable Dunes energy that has made this event a highlight year after year. If you’re ready to move and connect, this is the place to be.
2. Take a Swing at the Rainbow Putt-Putt Tournament – Monday, June 2
Enjoy some fresh air and friendly fun at the Rainbow Putt-Putt Tournament at Saugatuck Mini Golf. While the exact details are still being ironed out, expect lighthearted laughs and low-stakes competition as you connect with others in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or just along for good company, it’s a great way to add some playful energy to your PRIDE Week experience.
3. Bowl and Be Bold at PRIDE Bowling Night – Tuesday, June 3
Get ready to roll with the PRIDE Bowling Party at Alley’s Pizza at Lakeview Lanes, hosted by West Shore Aware. From 6 to 9 p.m., it’s all about laughter, friendly rivalry, and cheering on the strikes. (In the spirit of inclusivity, we’ll cheer for the gutter balls too!) No matter if you’re here to play or to spectate, the joyful energy is sure to be contagious—especially with trophies on the line and delicious pizza only steps away.
4. Feed Your Mind with Bonnie Morris – Wednesday, June 4
For a dose of insight and inspiration, head to the Saugatuck/Douglas District Library for an evening with renowned out and proud women’s history professor Bonnie Morris, who currently teaches at UC Berkeley, as she delves into her book What’s the Score: 25 Years of Teaching Women’s Sports History. Before her 5:30 p.m. lecture, enjoy a casual reception hosted by the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center starting at 4 p.m. This event blends social time with substance—offering a window into female and LGBTQ+ perspectives in education and sports.
5. Dine & Discuss with Jay Kaplan at The Kirby – Thursday, June 5
If you’re craving meaningful conversation and a deeper dive into LGBTQ+ advocacy, join us for an evening of craft cocktails, fine dining, and impactful dialogue. The Kirby Hotel welcomes Jay Kaplan, LGBT Staff Attorney at the ACLU of Michigan, for a compelling discussion on civil rights and current issues facing the community. Arrive at 5:30 p.m. for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before the 6 p.m. talk, then stay for a delicious, ticketed dinner at 7 p.m. It’s an experience that will feed both mind and body.
6. Let the Music Move You at Jazz for Justice – Friday, June 6
Looking for something soulful? Head to All Saints’ Episcopal Church for the free PRIDE Jazz for Justice Concert. Running from 5:30 to 7 p.m., the event features the Holland Concert Jazz Orchestra, plus food trucks, a cash bar, and a street party atmosphere. It’s an evening of feel-good rhythms and community connection—perfect for winding down your week or gearing up for the big weekend finale.
7. Celebrate Big at PRIDE in the Park – Saturday, June 7
Saturday marks the grand finale—and it starts with the spirited PRIDE Care-A-Van Parade at 10:30 a.m. from Saugatuck High School. With lots of smiling faces and rainbow flags waving, it’s a rolling party that’s overflowing with unity and positive vibes. After the parade, keep the energy going at PRIDE in the Park at Beery Field from noon to 6 p.m. This free festival features live music from local fan favorites Random Play and Chicago’s high-energy 80s tribute band Sixteen Candles—making their Douglas Pride debut. Add in delicious food trucks, refreshing drinks, local vendors, and a community that radiates love and inclusivity, and you’ve got a day that’s full of celebration and shared joy.
Ready to join the celebration? Find everything you need to know about PRIDE Week here.
