NEW HOPE, PA – The scenic riverfront towns of New Hope, Pennsylvania, and Lambertville, New Jersey, are preparing to burst into a kaleidoscope of expression this spring. New Hope Celebrates (NHC) has officially announced the return of PrideFest 2026, running from May 9 to May 17.
Under the bold new theme, “Pride IN FULL COLOR,” this year’s festivities aim to honor the raw, expressive energy of the LGBTQ+ community. Organizers expect more than 15,000 attendees to descend upon the Delaware River valley for nine days of visibility, advocacy, and celebration.
A Theme of Unapologetic Visibility
This year’s aesthetic is inspired by the grit and vibrance of street art. Featuring a visual identity of graffiti-layered brick and paint splatters, "Pride IN FULL COLOR" is a call for the community to live out loud.
"I am proud of the strength of our community, rich with so many LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors," says NHC President Melissa Patterson. "Pride IN FULL COLOR honors that legacy and shines a light on every shade of who we were, who we are, and who we will continue to be."
The Main Stage: Crystal Waters & Vincint
The celebration culminates on Saturday, May 16, with PrideFest Live!, featuring a powerhouse duo of headliners:
- Crystal Waters: A house music icon with 12 #1 Billboard Dance hits, Waters is the voice behind legendary tracks like "Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless)" and "100% Pure Love."
- VINCINT: The Philadelphia-born singer and Queer Eye anthem artist brings his soaring vocals to the stage. Fresh off a 2025 Coachella performance, VINCINT continues to be a leading voice in contemporary queer pop.
The live performances follow the region’s most iconic event: America's only Pride parade to cross state lines. Led by a 100-foot rainbow flag, the procession will march from Lambertville over the bridge into New Hope, headed by the newly crowned Miss New Hope Celebrates 2026, Athena Chanteuse.
2026 PrideFest Itinerary
The nine-day calendar offers a blend of high-energy parties and community-focused gatherings:
- Flag Unfurling (Saturday, May 9): The festivities officially begin at the Starbucks Building in New Hope with the dropping of the Progress Pride Flag, followed by a celebratory reception at Martine’s RiverHouse.
- Pride with Purpose (Tuesday, May 12): Held at the Logan Inn, this evening of education features international LGBTQ+ community members discussing their experiences transitioning to life in the U.S.
- Pride Bingo (Wednesday, May 13): Hosted by Miss Pumpkin at HollyHedge Estate, this "IN FULL COLOR" tie-dye party features high-energy drag performances and amazing prizes.
- Love is Love Gala (Thursday, May 14): A night of elegance at River House at Odette’s featuring a live fashion show, a DJ, and an auction showcasing local queer artists and luxury experiences.
- Pride Parade & Fair (Saturday, May 16): The centerpiece of the week begins with the famous parade from Lambertville to New Hope, immediately followed by the Pride Fair and PrideFest Live! concert at Pride Park.
- Closing Tea & Pool Party (Sunday, May 17): The celebration concludes at the New Hope Inn & Suites with a poolside dance party hosted by Miss NHC 2026, Athena Chanteuse.
In addition to these marquee dates, the NHC Best Cocktail Contest runs throughout the month (May 1–24), where 16+ local bars will compete for the "fan favorite" title with custom Pride-inspired cocktails and mocktails.
Get Involved
New Hope Celebrates is currently seeking volunteers, vendors, and parade participants. Businesses and individuals looking to march or showcase their crafts have until April 30, 2026, to register.
For the full lineup, event tickets, and registration details, visit newhopecelebrates.com or follow on social media at @newhopecelebrates.
