Get excited for Equality Sandusky's Shoreline Pride

SANDUSKY — Equality Sandusky is proud to announce Shoreline Pride 2025 — a vibrant and expansive weeklong celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, visibility and progress — taking place throughout downtown Sandusky and Shoreline Park. Anchored by the 10th anniversary of Obergefell v. Hodges — the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide — the festivities began on June 14 and run through June 28. Events span health advocacy, comedy, drag, live music, panel discussions and family fun. Shoreline Pride Shoreline Pride's festivities conclude with a full-day celebration, the Shoreline Pride Parade & Festival, on Saturday, June 28. All festivities start and/or take place at Shoreline Park, 411 E. Shoreline Drive, Sandusky. It starts with the Shoreline Pride parade at 11 a.m., beginning at Warren and Washington streets, and continues with the Pride Festival at Shoreline Park from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, drinks, community resources, local vendors and a variety of family-friendly activities. The parade and festival are free to attend. Festival highlights include: • 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Live entertainment on the pavilion stage hosted by Joey Fox featuring DJ-Flo, NY EL, HEKTIKT Ballroom, family-friendly drag bingo and a comic book workshop with Grace Ellis • 4-10 p.m. — Live entertainment on the main stage hosted by Tim Murray and Michael Henry featuring The Melrose Project, magician Michael Mage, The 80s Ladies, the Main Stage Drag Show, and the Pride Dance Party with DJ J-Flo The festival also includes face-painting, caricatures, interactive games and community organization booths. Beer, wine and seltzer stations will be available on-site. Other events A pride meet-and-greet event took place on Tuesday. Here's a look at other events taking place around Sandusky. Note: There might be a cost to attend these events • 7 p.m. Friday, June 20 — Halo Live Drag Bash, a 90s Dance Party, Halo Live, 805 Wayne St. • 7 p.m. Wednesday — Live comedy show featuring Murray, Harlequins Coach House Theatre • 7-10 p.m. Friday, June 27— Goodtime I Pride Party Cruise, Jackson Street Pier • 7:30-11 p.m. Friday, June 27— Super Troupers, an ABBA tribute, Barrel House Saloon, 101 E. Shoreline Drive A celebration of marriage equality The cornerstone of this year's pride celebration is titled a celebration of marriage equality, taking place on Thursday, June 26 at 126 Event Venue, 126 Columbus Ave. This date marks the exact 10-year anniversary of the Supreme Court's ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges: June 26, 2015. This powerful evening will feature Jim Obergefell, the named plaintiff in the historic case and a nationally recognized voice for LGBTQ+ equality and civil rights. A Sandusky native, Obergefell has continued to champion justice and dignity since the 2015 ruling, helping shape the national conversation around equality and inclusion. Obergefell has become a leading advocate for justice and dignity since his landmark case reshaped the national dialogue. He: • Co-authored "Love Wins," a book he helped pen to describe what happened through his experience • Co-founded Equality Vines, a Sonoma-based wine label that benefits civil rights organizations • Served as executive producer of "The JustMarried Project," a multimedia initiative chronicling the love stories that powered the marriage equality movement • Continues to represent the boards of Family Equality and Equality Sandusky • Contributed to numerous publications, podcasts and policy initiatives nationwide The evening will also feature a live auction, small plates, cocktails and a panel discussion titled Growing Up LGBTQIA+ in Sandusky, featuring Obergefell and: • Murray, comedian and actor who's been featured on HBO Max and in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival • Grace Ellis, a New York Times–bestselling author and Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation media award–winning scriptwriter • Mickey Andrew, a local trans advocate It will be moderated by Nathan Schaefer, senior vice president of public policy and access with the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $100 for general admission or $150 for VIP, which includes reserved seating and a meet-and-greet. Advanced tickets are required and available at shorelinepridesandusky.com. People can also visit the website for a full schedule and sponsorship opportunities. Bio blast Equality Sandusky was founded to foster equity, dignity and visibility for LGBTQIA+ individuals across the Sandusky Bay region. Through advocacy, community events and education, the organization envisions a future where all people can live openly, safely and proudly. Special thanks to the city of Sandusky, the Sandusky police and fire departments and the Sandusky Recreation team for their continued support and partnership in making Shoreline Pride possible. Additionally, Equality Sandusky extends gratitude to the Erie County Community Foundation and Shores & Islands Ohio for generous grant support, a host of local businesses who have generously sponsored the event and to all supporters of LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies in the Sandusky Bay region.