Bellevue is marking Pride Month with a pair of community events aimed at celebrating inclusion and support for the LGBTQ+ community on the Eastside.
The City of Bellevue, in partnership with Pride Across the Bridge, will host Pride on the Plaza on Wednesday, June 3, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Bellevue City Hall Plaza. The event invites community members of all ages to gather in recognition of Pride Month and celebrate belonging and visibility across Bellevue.
The afternoon will begin with remarks from Bellevue city leadership and councilmembers, followed by comments from Nicky Heavy Runner Chabot. The Bellevue Police Department Honor Guard will also raise the Pride flag over City Hall as part of the ceremony.
Attendees can enjoy live music, performances, food, and shopping from local vendors. Community organizations will also be on-site with resource tables offering information and support.
“Pride Across the Bridge is grateful to continue building alongside the City of Bellevue to create spaces where our 2SLGBTQIA+ community is visible, celebrated, and empowered close to home,” said Axton Burton, executive director of Pride Across the Bridge. “Events like Pride on the Plaza help foster connection, joy, and belonging on the Eastside, while reminding our queer neighbors that they are not alone. They are part of a vibrant and growing community woven into the heart of Bellevue year-round.”
Bellevue Mayor Mo Malakoutian emphasized the city’s ongoing commitment to inclusion.
“Events like Pride on the Plaza help us build a welcoming Bellevue, one where connection, learning, and belonging are at the heart of who we are,” Malakoutian said. “We remain committed to creating inclusive spaces that honor every identity and uplift the diversity that makes Bellevue the place you want to be.”
The Bellevue City Council also plans to formally recognize Pride Month with a proclamation during its June 2 council meeting.
The celebration will continue that week with a more casual community gathering in downtown Bellevue. The Bellevue Downtown Association and Eastside Pride PNW are partnering to host the Paws & Pride Dog Walk on Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bellevue Downtown Park.
Proceeds from the event will benefit Seattle Humane and Youth Eastside Services.
The two events reflect Bellevue’s continued efforts to create welcoming spaces and celebrate Pride Month across the Eastside.
