YACHATS — After a two-year pandemic break, Yachats Pride returns this weekend as part of national Pride Month with a slate of entertainment, informational and spiritual activities.
“This pride in particular is really about re-connecting everyone in the community … getting everyone together,” said Emily Crabtree, a board member of non-profit Yachats Pride and co-owner of Saint Perpetua Patio restaurant.
Yachats Pride was formed in 2017 to celebrate diversity, according to its website, among the LGBTQ+ community (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, queer, inter-sex, asexual).
“Our main goal is keeping Pride accessible, free and non-corporate” said Crabtree. Those interested in volunteering can send an email to info@yachatspride.org.
Except as indicated, all Yachats Pride Weekend events are scheduled to take place outdoors around the Yachats Commons and pavilion to maximize Covid safety. For more details, visit the YachatsPride website.
THE SCHEDULE:
Friday
5 p.m.: Potluck dinner (bring a dish to share) and yard games at Yachats Community Presbyterian Church, 360 W. Seventh St.
Saturday
10-11 a.m.: March For Our Lives-Stand Against Gun Violence along U.S. Highway 101 in downtown Yachats along with Black Lives Matter silent protestors. Participants are welcome to bring signs or just stand peacefully.
Noon to 2 p.m. Commons Pavilion: Food & Poetry & Fun, with food provided by Saint Perpetua Patio. Beer and wine with donation. Write on vintage typewriters any words about pride, “or whatever moves you.” Commons Pavilion.
2-3 p.m.: Pooch Puppy Parade. Bring your dog and “get dolled up for a puppy parade.” Outfield of the baseball diamond.
3-4 p.m. Commons Pavilion: Honoring Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. Panel discussion on two-spirit identity in tribal communities and traditions around those roles.
4-5 p.m.: Drag performance by Fanny Rugburn. Adult and child-friendly live singing. On the grass, by the bleachers.
5-7 p.m. Live music, DJs and dancing. Featuring violinist Robbie Dee, local singer/songwriter Matthew Buonaiuto, and Portland DJs Mr. Luxury and Rusty Rainbow. Commons Pavilion.
Sunday
9:45-11 a.m. Yachats Community Presbyterian Church: Pride worship with Pride-friendly hymn sing, followed by worship service starting at 10 a.m.