Get Ready for PRIDE: Top Ten Things to Do in Saugatuck/Douglas

1. Dance Your Heart Out at the PRIDE Tea Dance – Sunday, May 31

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 over 21 and ready to move and connect, this is the place to be.

2. Take a Swing at the PRIDE Putt-Putt Tournament – Monday, June 1

Enjoy some fresh air and friendly fun at the PRIDE Putt-Putt Tournament at Saugatuck Mini Golf from 5:30–7:30 p.m., with a 6:00 p.m. tee-off. Grab your family and friends and take on 18 holes in this lighthearted team competition, where foursomes start at different holes and play the full course. With some great prizes up for grabs and plenty of laughs along the way, it’s a great way to add some playful energy to your PRIDE Week experience.

3. Smash the Ball at Pickle & PRIDE Pickleball Tournament – Tuesday, June 2

Get ready for fast-paced rallies and plenty of friendly competition at the first annual Pickle & PRIDE Pickleball Tournament being held at Schultz Park from 4:00–6:00 p.m. This year’s theme, “Love The One You’re With,” means teams are formed at the start, making it easy to meet new people and get in on the game. Whether you’re playing to win or just here for the fun, expect exciting matches, great vibes, and a few unforgettable shots along the way.

4. Cruise into Pride on the Paddle Boat – Tuesday, June 2

All aboard the Star of Saugatuck for the Pride Paddle Cruise—a floating celebration like no other! Dance with DJ Ruth Crowe spinning the tunes, snack on some treats, and toast to inclusion and belonging with a drink from the cash bar. Enjoy views of the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan on this authentic sternwheeler paddleboat. Two 90-minute cruises are offered this year, departing at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Plan to arrive early to park and purchase tickets, as advance tickets are not available.

5. Connect Through Story with Wade Rouse & CommUNITY Pride Social – Wednesday, June 4

Settle in for an evening that brings together storytelling, connection, and a little celebration. Start at the Saugatuck-Douglas District Library for a CommUNITY Pride Author Spotlight featuring bestselling author and local resident Wade Rouse, who will discuss his latest novel, That’s What Friends Are For. Inspired by The Golden Girls, the book follows four older gay friends in Palm Springs as they navigate life, love, and chosen family with humor and heart. The presentation runs from 5:30–6:30 p.m. and includes time for Q&A. Afterward, continue the evening just down the street at the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center for the CommUNITY Pride Social from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Enjoy wine, delicious food, and lively conversation, along with a performance by the Grand Rapids Original Swing Dance Society and book signings with Wade Rouse. 

6. Dine & Discuss with Tim Bahr 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 Tim Bahr, Vice President of Leadership Giving at the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), for a compelling discussion on the HRC’s work, their strategy and plan for the 2026 midterms, and how you can further engage with them. Arrive at 5:00 p.m. for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before the 5:30 p.m. talk, then stay for a delicious, ticketed multi-course dinner with wine pairings from Modales Winery at 7 p.m. It’s an experience that will feed both mind and body.

7. Let the Music Move You at Jazz for Justice – Friday, June 5

Looking for something soulful? Head to All Saints’ Episcopal Church for the free PRIDE Jazz for Justice Concert. Running from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., the event features the Holland Concert Jazz Orchestra, plus food trucks, a cash bar, and a street party atmosphere. Bring your own lawn chairs for an evening of feel-good rhythms and community connection—perfect for winding down your week or gearing up for the big weekend finale.

9. Cheer On the CommUNITY PRIDE Parade – Saturday, June 6

Saturday marks the grand finale of PRIDE week—and it starts with the spirited CommUNITY PRIDE Parade,a joyful celebration that brings the streets to life from Saugatuck to Douglas. Beginning at Saugatuck High School, this motorcade of classic cars, convertibles, floats, and special guests makes its way through downtown, across the Kalamazoo River, and into Douglas, ending at Beery Field. With lots of smiling faces and rainbow flags waving, it’s a rolling party that’s overflowing with unity and positive vibes.

10. Celebrate Big at PRIDE in the Park – Saturday, June 6

After the parade, keep the energy going at PRIDE in the Park at Beery Field from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. This free festival features music from DJ John and Thump Box Music and live performances by Chicago’s favorite party band, Hello Weekend, and high-energy 80s tribute band Sixteen Candles. 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.