Hampton Roads Pride is thrilled to announce the headlining performers and PrideFest weekend events for the 35th Annual PrideFest celebrating love and inclusion in the Hampton Roads community. The highly anticipated event will take place on (Saturday June 24, 2023) from noon until 8pm, at Towne Point Park in Norfolk, Virginia.
Presented by Sentara, City of Norfolk, and TOC Creative, PrideFest ‘Break Free 23’ promises to be a day filled with vibrant entertainment and heartfelt celebrations. Spencer Ludwig, the Latin Grammy winning and Grammy performing trumpeter, songwriter and producer, will grace the audience with his electrifying performance.
Since being the original trumpeter in the multi- platinum band Capital Cities, the Los Angeles-born, half-Filipino vocalist-instrumentalist has gone rogue, adding a new dimension of possibility to not only his sonic musical weapon of choice, but to pop music, overall. Ludwig is set to capture the crowd and create an unforgettable experience.
Joining Ludwig as a headliner for PrideFest 2023 is the sensational Mo Heart. Mo Heart, formerly known as Monique Heart, a legendary fan favorite on Rupaul’s Drag Race as a runner up on All Stars and the franchises’ biggest competition yet: UK v The World. Since the show, Mo has conquered television and music hosting Amazon Music’s flagship show: The Walk In, which visits the closets of music icons like Lil Nas X, Maren Morris, Charli XCX, and more, to discuss how fashion influences their music and vice versa. It was nominated for 3 Webb’s this year.
Mo is poised to slay the mainstage at PrideFest “PrideFest is an integral part of our ongoing commitment to fostering Diversity, Equity & Inclusion within Hampton Roads, and celebrating all of our LGBTQIAP+, Non Binary, Gender Non Conforming, and our Allies in one united celebration,” said Nick Dintlemann, President of Hampton Roads Pride.
“We are delighted to announce Spencer Ludwig and Mo Heart as our headliners for this year’s event. Their incredible talent and passion for equality align perfectly with our mission, and we know they will deliver an unforgettable experience for all.” PrideFest, the largest annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in Virginia. Attracting over
40,000 attendees will feature:
● An array of LGBTQ and allied organizations including food vendors, political and business leaders, entertainment, and resources.
● Attendees can enjoy live performances from local and regional artists, a family zone, a Hampton Roads Pride History exhibit and interactive vendor booths.
● The Biggest and only Pride Boat Parade in the country!
“We are grateful for the support of our presenting sponsors, Sentara, City of Norfolk, and TOC Creative,” added Dintlemann. “Their commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is vital in creating a welcoming and safe environment for all members of our community. We also want to thank all of our sponsors, from those participating for the first time to those with multiple years of commitment. They continue to make this dream come true.”
PrideFest 2023 themed ‘Break Free 23′ & will take place at Towne Point Park, located in Norfolk, Virginia. Celebrating the dignity and courage inherent within the LGBTQ+ community, while also acknowledging that the battle for equality continues. The event is free and open to the public.
