Westport to host first pride celebration including free admission, food, drag queens, live entertainment, yoga, DJ, band, raffles, vendors

Westport, MA – The Cat And Raven, a local LGBTQ-owned small business, has announced that they have taken on the task of organizing the town’s first ever pride celebration. The owners, Keith & Jessie Dias, are Westport residents and active members of their local community, participating in a range of community events and fundraisers. Co-owner, Keith Dias, is also a member of the Westport Recreation Commission.

“As town residents, business owners and proud members of the LGBTQ community, Keith
and I felt it was time to let our town’s pride shine.” said Jessie Dias of The Cat And Raven.

Westport Pride Fest will feature free admission & parking, Pride Gift Bags (to the first 150 attendees) and live entertainment including yoga & guided meditation, DJ, band and drag queens to close out the festivities. And that’s not all, the fest will also be serving up food, drinks, sweet treats, vendors and 2x raffles (50/50 & prize) benefitting The South Coast LGBTQ+ Network.

The event will be held on Sunday, June 23, 2024, from noon – 5:00 p.m. rain or shine at Westport Holy Ghost Club located at 171 Sodom Road in Westport.

While there were adversaries to overcome in the planning, there is nothing but love and
support for Westport Pride Fest coming from the local community and beyond. Organizers, Keith & Jessie Dias have been receiving an outpour of calls, comments, e-mails & messages showing gratitude and appreciation for bringing a pride celebration to town.

“Thank you so much. I’ve never felt so much joy in my heart to see this occurring” and
“About time! See you all there” – a few publicly posted comments on social media.

Westport Pride Fest has two Main Stage Sponsors:

The South Coast LGBTQ+ Network – a non-profit organization dedicated to
making our community a better place. They are also this year’s cause and the
benefactor of all funds raised (less operating expenses).

Senator Michael J. Rodrigues – a Westport resident and state senator representing
the First Bristol and Plymouth District, serving Fall River, Freetown, Lakeville,
Rochester, Somerset, Swansea and Westport. He was elected to the Massachusetts
State Senate in 2010. And prior to being elected, he served 14 years in the Houe
of Representatives.

Other Pride Sponsors include:

Westport Federal Credit Union – Serving the South Coast, Westport Federal
Credit Union’s mission is to provide compassionate, friendly, and personalized
financial services to all members. And the WFCU also seeks to enrich the
community it serves by providing educational opportunities, fun activities &
events, and support for all community members.

J.W. STEELE Custom Canvas (Westport, MA)

Jennifer DaPonte – Berkshire Hathaway Home Services / Robert Paul Properties
And that’s just top billing sponsorships, as the Westport Pride Fest has been gaining
support and donations from local businesses across the South Coast as well as
private/individual contributions.

“We are truly amazed by the reception. It is validation to us, personally. And proves
Westport has heart and Westport has pride too! But most of all, it demonstrates that our
local LGBTQ+ community is seen, heard and respected. That’s what makes the South
Coast such an amazing community”, said Keith Dias.