The start of June officially marks the beginning of Pride month. And Pride month usually means tons of parades and celebrations happening across the country, but due to social distancing regulations, Pride month will look a bit different this year. While we may not be able to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community with large groups and rainbow colors, we can still celebrate them in other ways. Not even a pandemic can cancel Pride. Here are some ideas on how you can safely celebrate Pride this month:

Have a virtual happy hour
Pride celebrations usually mean going to the bars for a drink (or 5) with all your friends. However, unfortunately, many bars across the nation known for their pride celebrations will not be open. But don’t let that stop you from celebrating with your favorite drink! Bring the bar to you and make a virtual event with all your friends. Bartend your favorite beverage and enjoy it with a virtual happy hour.

Give back online
Just because we can’t shop in stores doesn’t mean you still can’t fuel your shopping addiction- but this month, do it for a cause. Amazon Smile lets you give 0.5 percent of your purchase to LGBTQ+ organization, or you can donate to the myriad of other groups and causes.

Make rainbow food
One of the best parts of Pride celebrations is wearing the most fun and bright rainbow-colored outfits. We may not be able to wear those outfits in public this year, but we sure can make rainbow food! Bring out your inner chef and make some rainbow-colored treats. Check out these recipes: https://www.readyseteat.com/inspiration-and-tips/rainbow-food-ideas

Go to a virtual parade
Nothing beats attending a real Pride parade, but for now, a virtual event will have to do. Tune in on Saturday, June 27, for Global Pride, a virtual parade hosted by InterPride. The event will feature speeches, music performances, and more. You can even get some friends, and socially distance celebrate together!

Educate yourself on the history of Pride
To fully support Pride and the LGBTQ+ community, you should take the time to educate yourself on its history. Marsha P. Johnson was one of the first prominent figures at the Stonewall uprising in 1969, and the enduring history of the LGBTQ+ community has only grown. Take some time this month to educate yourself on all those hills and valleys.