Amherst Wraps up Pride Month with Joyful Parade
Amherst Pride Parade, June 28, 2026. Photo: Art Keene
Good weather and a large turnout made for a joyful day as Amherst concluded its Pride Month celebrations with a Pride parade on June 28. Led by the Expandable Brass Band, over 500 marchers representing 38 area organizations paraded from Amherst Regional High School, up Triangle Street, to North Pleasant Street and down North Pleasant to the Town Common. Hundreds of spectators, many decked out in rainbow apparel or waving pride flags, lined the route, offering friendly waves and shouts of support.
The common was packed for the subsequent rally and resource fair. Town Councilors read the council’s proclamation commemorating Pride Month. Entertainment was provided by the Expandable Brass Band, Dame Judi Dentures, Faye King
Peachy Creme, and the Queer Joy Chorus.
Event organizer Philip Avila, Assistant Director of Amherst’s Office of Diversity, celebrated the large and enthusiastic turnout, commenting, ” The parade was a tremendous success, with increased participation from marchers and vendors, along with vibrant live performances on the Common. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who helped make it happen, especially Amherst Pride, the Amherst Business Improvement District, and town’s Department for their collaboration.”
