Berkley celebrates third year of Pride Block Party

BERKLEY — Berkley is ready to celebrate Pride once again with its annual Berkley Pride Block Party.

The city’s third annual Pride event will take place 1-5 p.m. Sunday, June 23, at Robina Avenue south of 12 Mile Road, on Griffith Avenue south of 12 Mile, and in the city’s parking lots and alleys in that vicinity.

“Both of our Berkley Prides so far were very well received and had a great vibe because they were distinctly Berkley and distinctly had a family focus,” Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Mike McGuinness said. “For our third offering, we are aiming to capture that same Berkley vibe and continue to be a hospitable Pride for all age groups.”

McGuinness said the event saw exponential growth from the first year to last year and organizers are planning for that continued growth and positive enthusiasm into year three.

This includes an increase in the number of food trucks and community resource booths available. There also will be a kids craft tent, teen bingo and other youth activities.

“Many downtown Berkley businesses are expanding their hours and opening or staying open, so that way visitors can have a really upbeat experience in our downtown,” he said.

McGuinness also noted that The Wedding Shoppe is sponsoring an area for people to get married or get their vows renewed at the event.

Wedding Shoppe Manager Haley Guyot said the business also will be providing discounts on finishing touches for the wedding, if needed, such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets and veils.

“(Owner) Michelle (McFarland) is always happy to give back to the community, and this was kind of our way of seeing us being a part of that and really helping out to make sure everyone can get married and have all the finishing touches they need for their look and everything,” Guyot said.

The block party will end with a color explosion at 5 p.m., where kids and families can toss colored powder into the air in celebration of Pride.

“Positive reception from Berkley residents for Berkley Pride has been really gratifying, and that’s what’s driving the offering in the first place, is community members coming together, volunteering and making it happen,” McGuinness said. “It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of and to support.”

For more information on the event, visit downtownberkley.com/berkley-pride.