This weekend, two Pride celebrations are set to happen in the region in Amherst and Holyoke.

Amherst recently announced its first-ever pride festivities, which will take place on Sunday from 12 to 3 p.m. The celebration will feature a parade, rally and community resource fair. The event is hosted by Amherst Pride volunteers, the Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Downtown Amherst Business Improvement District.

Amherst Pride volunteers proposed the idea of a pride celebration two months ago and have been preparing since, according to Philip Avila, the town’s assistant director of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Beginning at 11 a.m., there will be a sign making session and supplies will be provided. The parade begins at noon at the Amherst-Pelham Regional High School and will wind through downtown Amherst, ending at the Amherst Town Common.

“There are so many injustices in this world and I think people need the opportunity for community,” said Amherst Pride volunteer Jan Eidelson, who has lived in Amherst for 25 years. “It’s about gathering people for community, fighting injustice and celebrating love in all forms.”

While she is unsure what the turnout will be, Eidelson says that she is “just “floored” by the response they have gotten so far. Sixty vendors are signed up for the event, and several speakers, including state Rep. Mindy Domb, D-Amherst, will deliver remarks.

After the parade, a rally and resource fair will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. on the Amherst Town Common, featuring speakers, community leaders and performances highlighting LGBTQ+ voices and experiences. Attendees will be able to connect with local organizations and businesses offering support, services and information.

“I want everyone to feel like they have a place in the world and are embraced by a community,” Eidelson said. “I’ve had the opportunity to feel supported in my life; I want young people to feel the same.”

Avila says that Amherst Pride is an opportunity to bring the community together in solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community during challenging times.

“We’d love for people to be out there,” said Avila, adding that whether participants are on the sidewalks waving or marching in the parade, it would be a day of celebration for all.

More information can be found at amherstma.gov/pride, or by contacting Amherst Pride Volunteers at amherstmapride@gmail.com.

PrideFest in Holyoke

While Amherst’s celebration has just joined western Massachusetts’ repertoire of pride celebrations, Holyoke Pride is a well-established event organized by an all-volunteer committee with support from local sponsors and community partners.

This year, it will take place on Saturday at Veterans Park from 12 to 6 p.m. The event is free and open to all.

Holyoke PrideFest will feature food and live performances, including performers such as RuPaul Drag Race’s Alyssa Hunter and singer-songwriter Mary Lambert, as well as many local performers, DJs, craft vendors and community organizations.

There will also be a Holyoke Pride After Party from 5 to 11 p.m. at 420 Dwight St., which is a 21-plus event featuring DJs, dance, drag and drinks. Tickets are available at the door or online at holyokepride.org, where more information about HolyokePridefest can also be found.