SAAF is an incredible organization with an outsize footprint in the Old Pueblo and surrounding areas. I attempt to support them whenever possible as I know ever dollar of proceeds goes directly to support their mission. SAAF is known for:
Providing support services for those living with HIV/AIDS
Supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS
Education for prevention of HIV
They serve around 1,300 clients each year, so they have a huge need for volunteering and donations. Thankfully, they make it so easy and fun to give! Come to the next Bowling for Tommy event to see what I mean!
What is SAAF Bowling For Tommy?
Named after the legendary Tucsonan Tommy Gin, this fun, family-oriented bowling tournament serves as a fitting legacy. It is a fund-raising opportunity for SAAF and a great chance for you to have a good time for a fantastic cause.
When and Where is SAAF Bowling For Tommy?
Check the GayTucson.com Events Calendar regularly to stay on top of this and all the other incredible events for Tucson’s fabulous gay community. Also, be sure to read the GayTucson Blog to learn about the latest news affecting Tucson, Marana, Oro Valley, and Vail!
Tucson is lucky enough to have two Gay Pride celebrations annually visit our fabulous community. The first Gay Pride occurs in June, which coincides with the Stonewall Rebellion and subsequent public demonstrations. The second Pride comes a bit later in the year. That time is finally upon us! Join us as we celebrate with two iconic events: Tucson Pride Parade and Pride in the Desert.
Pride Parade 2019
Tucson Pride Parade 2019
The Tucson Pride Parade has a long, rich history in our community. This year will watch the procession proceed from Broadway / Craycroft and head towards Reid Park, where we will meet up with the festival.
I am so happy Tucson Pride decided to hold the Pride Parade immediately before the festival. The parade used to be organized on the night before, while allowed for some fantastic after-parties, it meant the two events were disunited from each other with little overlap. By having one naturally lead into the other, the Pride Parade and the festival will have increased synergy and provide an even better representation of our amazing community!
Pride in the Desert (or Park) has always been the flagship event of Tucson Pride weekend. Featuring hilarious hosts, marvelous musical performances and fantastic shows, Pride in the Desert truly has something for everyone. There are adorable shops with Pride souvenirs and phenomenal fashion vendors to get you looking your best. It is a wonderfully welcoming, safe space for everyone to be themselves and have a blast!
Tucson Pride is in October, but for the rest of the country, it’s in June. You’ll know it by the mass rainbow apparel that starts popping up everywhere. Literally everywhere. But, if you’re like us and love seeing new pride merch up for grabs keep on keeping on. If you are interested in still participating in Pride here are some of the events you can find around Arizona in June while you wait for October to get here.
In Tucson
Sophie McTearPride Exhibition at Crooked Tooth Brewing
Local artists Sophie McTear and Trevor Mock will have their work up on display while the bar serves Pride-themed drinks and specials. Opening June 4th at 6 pm.Pride Night with the FC Team
FC Tucson is the pro soccer team in town. They are celebrating their LGBT+ Pride Night at our match on Saturday, June 11th at 7:00 PM. Great group rates for 10 or more. Friends of GayTucson.com get the early bird special even if it’s not early!
Tucson Pride Bar Crawl
Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. A pub crawl. So, if you’re into libations you might want to get tickets early! Happening on June 18th.
For more pride events check out our calendar!
Elsewhere
Mojave County Pride, Glow
Do you have friends in Mojave County? If so you can enjoy Pride with them on June 11 & 12th from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. This is a completely family fun weekend. Adult themes are only available at the afterparties.
Bisbee Pride, Express Yourself:Bisbee Pride returns on June 17, 18, & 19th 2022. It’s always a good time at Bisbee Pride, there is Pride Village, street dancing, a tea dance, a Gayme Night and so much more. Grab some friends, rent an Air B&B and enjoy the entire weekend!
Pride in the Pines
Those of you in Northern Arizona have Flagstaff Pride to look forward to on June 18th from 12-9:00 pm. Thorpe Park Ball Fields is the venue so remember to wear sunscreen.
Proud To Be Seen in Tubac
This is a national juried art exhibition that will be up for the entirety of June at the Bruce Baughman Studio and Gallery. Exhibiting artists are interpreting PRIDE.
Rocky Point Diversity Pride ParadeThis is the 2nd annual Puerto Peñasco Pride Parade happening on June 25that 5 pm. Technically it’s not in Arizona but it’s close enough if you want a little getaway a little south of the border. Meeting at the Plaza de la Madre o Malecon Fundadores to kick things off.
We hope to see you there!
Raising funds for programs and services of the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation
The first Moda Provacateur, held in 2004, was created by Kevin Casey from Avalon for Hair, Skin and Nails after he participated in ‘Crème de la Do’ in 2003, a fashion and style show organized by an agency in Albuquerque helping to raise funds for local HIV/AIDS agencies around the country. Since 2004, Moda Provacateur has raised more than $141,000 in support of SAAF’s programs and services.
The incredible, continued support for Moda Provacateur from the local salons, boutiques and businesses through their participation and underwriting of the cost of the event, helps to build tradition and ultimately, the success of this exciting fundraiser.
