Each May, LGBTQIA+ high school students from Montgomery County and nearby communities gather for the MoCo Pride Prom. This year’s event took place Friday, May 16, at the Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza.
Organizers of the prom go beyond tradition. The event is carefully curated to prioritize inclusivity and safety. One parent shared feedback with organizers: “As a parent, I was a little concerned about the kids being in downtown Silver Spring at night, but when I rolled up to get her I was pleased to see the volunteers ready to escort kids to their cars or just watch over them as they left.”
For students who may feel isolated, unseen or unwelcome, Pride Prom means everything. It’s a celebration of identity, community and freedom — a space where students can show up fully and authentically, without fear or pressure. Pride Prom strives to fill the gap for students seeking such a space.
The event featured gender-neutral bathrooms, LGBTQIA+ flag-themed photo booths, stations for pronoun pin and bracelet making, and quiet rooms for sensory breaks.
When asked what MoCo Pride Prom means to them, students responded with heartfelt notes that capture the essence of the event:
Importantly, students have a say in the experience—from choosing the theme (this year’s was Gothic Horror) to shaping the playlist and decoration style.
“We listen to what our students want,” organizers told MCM. “This year, we held a week-long tournament on our social media, ‘march madness’ bracket style.”
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- Courtesy of MoCo Pride Prom
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- Courtesy of MoCo Pride Prom
MoCo Pride Prom organizers aim to keep the event accessible. Tickets are priced at $15, with financial assistance available for those who need it. Transportation support is also available, including Uber gift cards for students traveling from outside the county — like one couple who came from Virginia this year.
The Prom Closet provides donated prom attire, shoes, accessories and self-care items at no cost to students.
The event is made possible by volunteers, community partners and local businesses. MoCo Pride Prom is organized by a volunteer committee that meets regularly throughout the year. The group manages fundraising, planning and event-day logistics.
Botanero, in Rockville, hosts drag brunch fundraisers and splits the proceeds with MoCo Pride Prom. Picture Purrfect Photo Booth provides photo booth services. Local queer stylists offer discounted or free services to help students feel their best on prom night.
MoCo Pride Prom is more than a dance — it’s a night where LGBTQIA+ youth can celebrate who they are, surrounded by acceptance, community and joy.
More information about MoCo Pride Prom, including opportunities to donate or volunteer, is available at www.mocopridefamily.org/pride-prom.
