Join us for the 2026 MAHWAH - RAMSEY Pride celebration! June 26, 2026 Ramapo College
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The 1st Mahwah - Ramsey Pride Celebration will be bigger and better. Come celebrate with the local LGBTQ+ Community who live, work and attend school here!
Friday, June 26, 2026
RAMAPO COLLEGE - BILL BRADLEY CENTER
505 Ramapo Valley Rd
Mahwah, NJ 07430
5:30-8:30PM
(INDOOR LOCATION WITH AIR CONDITIONING)
THE BILL BRADLEY CENTER IS AN INDOOR, AIR-CONDITIONED LOCATION AT 505 RAMAPO VALLEY ROAD, MAHWAH, NJ 07430.
- LOTS OF FREE CAMPUS PARKING
- LOOK FOR PRIDE FLAG SIGNS WITH ARROWS TO DIRECT YOU
- FROM MAIN ENTRANCE, IT'S OFF TO THE RIGHT
- PLEASE JOIN US! BRING YOUR PRIDE!
Come CELEBRATE that RAINBOWS UNITE US!
Listen to inspiring speakers!
Enjoy great entertainment!
Learn stuff from our sponsors!
Have fun at the family area!
Shop at our vendor area!
Most important, SHOW YOUR PRIDE!
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Kay Gorgeous is a high-energy drag entertainer based out of Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey. She made her drag debut at the Miss Stanhope Pageant at the Stanhope House, and has been performing for the past five years. Since then, Kay has appeared on News 12, HBO’s We’re Here, and has been featured in Out In Jersey Magazine. Known for her comedic charm, dancing, and crowd interaction, Kay hosts four monthly shows across New Jersey including Steal The Spotlight 2.0 at the Madison Community Arts Center, Drag Your A$$ To Pottery Class at the Newbury Pottery Studio, Drag, Dinner & Shows at Tinga in Montclair, and Drag & Paint at The Green Room in Montclair.
Mixing our devotion to vocal excellence with our irrepressible sense of fun, the members of No Strings a cappella seek to captivate our audience with our infectious enthusiasm for a cappella singing in all its variety.
Just a joyous spray of voices to celebrate Pride! Gorgeous harmonies and spirited tunes are the hallmark of this great group of singers. We're thrilled to welcome them to our Pride stage!
4 people, 7 shoes between us, and music too I guess. We're here to play music, and hopefully do it good. Our founding members are Elion Hereni on guitar, and Austin Stefanelli on vocals, and in the rhythm section we have Cas Borrows on drums, and Sophia Onizhuk on bass. We are politically active, and were here to bring a message of love and positivity. We play pop punk, grunge and alternative rock music, and we simply enjoy doing it.
We're excited to welcome Adam back to our Pride stage. An accomplished guitarist and singer, he focuses his talents on sharing his love of music, teaching guitar and helping people as a board certified music therapist. Adam performs in various settings and plays most styles of music, including jazz, blues, rock, folk, and classical.

Monica Vega just graduated from Garfield High School (GHS) this year and is now pursuing an Engineering degree at Bergen Community College then transferring into becoming an Aerospace Engineer in the future. At GHS, Monica has been part of the Drama Club, participating as Queen Induna in Frozen Jr. and Ensemble in Mamma Mia!. Monica also was part of the GHS Select Choir as a Soprano 1 and has been part of the High Note Music Festival for 4 years winning Superior Ranking for 4 consecutive years. She would like to thank her family for supporting her in her music career, as well as Mrs. Maccini and Mrs. Makofske, for continuing to motivate her in musical talents throughout the future.
Jeffrey Castellano is a Ramsey Resident and has been a member of the Ramsey pride board since its founding. He is a singer/songwriter as well as a composer and classical singer. His music is unapologetically queer and honest.
Miss Tatyana Monet has a passion for all things fashion, and she is determined to leave her mark and be the designer of a better world. In a divisive world, creativity, community and individuality are very important to Tatyana. She aims always to maintain a welcoming attitude, radiate kindness, and embrace the unique qualities of others.
Fresh from Garfield High School, Wilson Velez
listens to too many genres, plays guitar and TRIES to work the piano. Now you have the opportunity to hear him sing on our Mahwah-Ramsey Pride stage!

Recent Garfield High School grad, Ivanna Varte
is delighted to perform at the Mahwah-Ramsey Pride Celebration
"Hi I love singing and putting on a show while being my true authentic self." CJ surprised us at last year's Pride Celebration when he asked to sing, and he blew us away. We're so glad to welcome him back.
Vikki is a tireless supporter, fundraiser, and entertainer for the entire LGBTQ+ community. She joyfully helps to bring out the beauty inside all whom she encounters. Vikki is excited to bring her verve to the Mahwah Pride Celebration!
Ray Welsh is a longtime LGBTQ+ advocate, fundraiser, community leader, and openly gay man who has been active in the community since 1988. Since 2009, Ray has served as Fundraising & Events Manager and Manager at Buddies of NJ, Inc., Bergen and Passaic County's premier AIDS service organization. He oversees supportive housing services for people living with HIV while leading fundraising, peer support, community engagement, and advocacy initiatives.
Simone Kraus is a passionate advocate, author, and representative of the Transgender Rights Coalition of New Jersey (TRC-NJ). Bringing a wealth of community leadership experience, Simone is also the former Vice President of Triversity Pride Center in Milford, PA. She is the author of Just a Different Wrapping, a book celebrating unique identities. Through grassroots advocacy and literature, Simone works tirelessly to ensure transgender individuals feel seen, safe, and celebrated.
Jeffrey Gonzalez represents the Department of Children and Families in Bergen County as the Resource Family Recruiter. He is actively recruiting foster families who want to make a difference and give back to their community. Bergen County's DCF is committed to recruiting and building a welcoming group of foster families to provide foster care to LGBTQ+ youth in need.
Bergen County Executive James J Tedesco III is the chief officer of the county's executive branch, overseeing the administration of county government. He was first elected in 2014.

The Mahwah - Ramsey Pride's Family Area provides activities for all ages that aim to be inclusive, expressive outlets and to promote a sense of belonging. Activities include games, crafts, books, readings, and more that have a focus on LGBTQ+ education, expression, acceptance, and community. Everyone is welcome!
Rockland Electric Company offers Home Energy Assessments at no cost! Go to Energy-Efficient Solutions for Your Home| Rockland Electric Company to schedule yours today.
AFSP NJ is committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community by advocating for public policies that support mental health and suicide prevention, including public policies at the federal and state levels that improve mental health and reduce suicide risk for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Valley Health System provides members of the LGBTQ+ community with the comprehensive healthcare they need in a safe and affirming space provided by allied health professionals. Valley's Center for LGBTQ+ Care offers primary care services in addition to HIV prevention services and treatment; adult transgender care; gynecologic services; sexual health services; referrals to fertility services; and more.
For appointments or more information, please call 201-612-4735 or Visit Us.
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center is a clinical affiliate of Rutgers. The Medical Center was ranked first in New Jersey and second nationally on the community benefit metric. Community benefit demonstrates a hospital’s commitment to investing in charity care as well as a broad spectrum of community health outreach programs. According to the Index, the hospital also earned “A” grades in social responsibility, health equity and patient safety.
Garden State Equality lifts up the diverse voices of LGBTQ+ communities through education and advocacy to advance the movement for equality in New Jersey and nationally. We work tirelessly to ensure the communities we serve experience lived equality.
The ACLU of New Jersey is working to ensure that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming people can live with dignity and free from discrimination, harassment, or violence.
After joining a successful fight against forced outing policies in schools, we’re currently monitoring school districts across NJ that have revoked policies safeguarding the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth and urging them to readopt these policies. It’s as important now as ever before that we continue to fight back, speak up, and boldly declare that we all have the freedom to be.
We pride ourselves in creating a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community. We believe in equality and spreading love through our craft.
Our children are our future. Learn more about adoption and foster care. Every child deserves love and laughter. Join our village.
Begun in 1985, the AIDS Memorial Quilt now has more than 50,000 panels. Each panel represents a loved one lost to the AIDS epidemic and fondly remembered by the people they left behind. The NJ Chapter will bring a sampling for us to view.
Bach to Rock is a modern music school for future stars! Learn from pro musicians in one-on-one lessons, jam with other students in ensemble programs, and rock the stage at live events!
ACRE Windows & Doors is an Andersen Premier Certified Contractor specializing in window & door replacement and repair. We service the whole state of NJ and we provide free, no obligation, in-home consultations.
Orangetheory combines full-body strength training with heart-pumping cardio to help you build strength now, while laying the foundation for long-term health.
Get expert advice and home upgrades that can help you start saving more energy right away. See if you qualify for a Home Weatherization assessment. Contact PSE&G today at 1-855-846-2895 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m.) or PSEGHomeEnergy@icf.com for help with any of our residential energy efficiency programs.
The Bergen County Office of LGBTQ+ Services, within the Bergen County Department of Human Services, provides a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for our LGBTQ+ residents. Under the leadership of Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners, the Office works to promote awareness, equality, and acceptance through advocacy, education, and community outreach. It also ensures that residents can access supportive services in spaces where they are respected and valued.
The mission of the Bergen County Office of LGBTQ+ Services is to help make every space in Bergen County welcoming and inclusive.
The mission of the BCLA is to provide a safe space, a resource hub and programs that empower and support the LGBTQ+ community living in and visiting Bergen County region.
Since 1985, Buddies of NJ has been helping those suffering from HIV/AIDS. They will offer confidential rapid 15-30 minute finger prick testing for Sti, Syphilis & HIV/AIDS in their modern mobile health unit.
All Mahwah High School students, LGBTQ+ and straight allies, are welcome in the Genders and Sexualities Alliance. Past, present, and future MHS students should stop by our table to say hello. MHS GSA is happy to be a part of Mahwah Pride!
Ramsey High School GSA provides a safe place for our students to discuss important issues and just be themselves.
The Ramapo College of New Jersey’s Women’s Center & LGBTQ+ Services works to build a welcoming feminist community that centers women and LGBTQ+ students by promoting education, advocacy, wellness, and connection.
Free Mom Hugs is a group of Moms, friends, and allies who support the LGBTQ community. This is our New Jersey chapter. We welcome new members.
Out In Jersey Inc. was founded in Oct. of 2002. Today, Out In Jersey LGBTQ media is a news and event website updated daily, social networking on all the major platforms and a bi-monthly LGBTQ magazine. Out In Jersey magazine is distributed at over 375+ locations bimonthly.
We are family, friends and allies of the LBTQ+ community. We offer two virtual support groups per month for parents and other family members who have LGBTQ loved ones.
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) participates in
Pride events throughout the country to offer resources and information to
LGBTQIA+ people who continue to face a political climate that impacts their ability
to get safe, quality, comprehensive, and inclusive care without the fear of
discrimination
All are welcome at the Mahwah Public Library! Whether you’re looking for your next read, a program to attend, or a safe place to hang out, we can’t wait to see you at the library.
Read the rainbow and celebrate who YOU are - stop by the library’s table for lots of fun freebies, including stickers, keychains and bookmarks!
WRIC provides knowledge and opportunities to support the economic aspirations, self-sufficiency, and emotional well-being of individuals so they may live with hope, security, and dignity.
West Bergen’s Rainbow Resources Program strives to help members of the LGBTQ community enrich their lives through services and programs that support growth and enhance understanding. Our programing aims to ensure that LGBTQ community members have the tools they need to lead happy, healthy lives. In addition, Rainbow Resources also offers the general public consultation services and educational training on a wide range of topics and questions related to LGBTQ issues.
Planned Parenthood Action Fund of New Jersey (PPAFNJ) is a nonpartisan, independent, 501(c)(4) non-profit social welfare organization, and the advocacy arm of the Planned Parenthood affiliates in NJ. We advocate for access to essential health care through education, activism, voter engagement, grassroots organizing, and legislative advocacy.
Are you 17 or 18? Register to Vote NOW! Democracy needs all of us to participate! Going away to college in the fall? This is a perfect time to get your Vote By Mail Application. Come check your status if you think you registered. Learn about our scholarship if you are a senior next year.
The League is a political grassroots network and membership organization that believes the freedom to vote is a nonpartisan issue. For more than a century, we’ve worked to empower voters and defend democracy.
Southern Paws Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit dog rescue based in Northern New Jersey. We collaborate with fellow rescues to rehome dogs facing euthanasia due to overpopulation. Additionally, we offer education, training, low cost spay and neuter, networking, disaster relief response, and shelter crisis management to support other animal organizations in their rescue endeavors.
Our mission is to advocate for the voiceless and offer hope to the hopeless, guided by our motto: "Teamwork makes the Dreamwork."
A Rescue & Adoption Sanctuary for Cats of All Ages
Creating a world where every cat has a chance to live, love, and be loved. At Simba’s Sanctuary, we believe every cat deserves a second chance at a happy life. Our vision is to foster a community that values and respects animals, promoting responsible pet ownership and humane treatment. Join us in creating a world where every cat can live, love, and be loved.
The Visibility Brigade was founded in Paramus and is now part of a nationwide movement. We create visibility about national issues on a bridge over Route 4, in Paramus, NJ and beyond. Come join our movement! Honk Honk!
Family Support Organization of Bergen County is a family-centered, family-driven nonprofit organization that provides peer support, education and advocacy for parents of children who have emotional, behavioral, mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental challenges.
Our goal is to empower parents and caregivers to take control of their lives by building on their strengths and supporting them as needed.
We are proud to be Stigma Free!
We’re dedicated to eliminating racism, promoting racial understanding, and advancing gender equity.
HealingSPACE is Bergen County’s sexual violence resource center. We provide free and confidential support to people who have experienced sexual violence. That support includes things like one on one therapy, support groups, a 24/7 hotline, and more!
The Bergen County STIGMA-FREE Initiative is a county-wide program which aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. We are dedicated to raising awareness of the disease of mental illness and create a culture wherein residents who have the disease feel supported by their community and neighbors and feel free to seek treatment for the disease without fear of stigma.
For over 35 years, NJCRI has been a trusted leader in HIV/AIDS care and treatment across Northern New Jersey. They create safe, affirming spaces for youth ages 16–25 by providing resources, advocacy, and meaningful connections. They support LGBTQ+ youth and their families with a full range of services including education and support for parents and caregivers who are navigating challenges in understanding, accepting, and supporting their LGBTQ+ children.
Waldwick Pride is made possible by community. We celebrate not only the LGBTQ+ community, but also friends, families, neighbors, and allies whose support helps create a town where everyone belongs.
Equality Mental Health offers expert care for mood and anxiety related concerns with a distinct focus on issues related to sexuality, gender, sex and relationships.
Mahwah, BHSS is a welcoming community valuing diversity. They are focused on sharing, learning, giving and enjoying.
We believe God’s love is expansive and unconditional. Through Christ, God calls us to love one another as God loves us. We celebrate people of every age, culture, difference of ability, economic circumstance, ethnic background, family configuration, gender identity, race, and sexual orientation. We recognize the worth, dignity, and gifts of everyone as a child of God.
Growing in mind and spirit, We act together as a beacon for justice and love: Transforming self and world.
The Pearl River United Methodist Church is a community rooted in grace, growing in faith and reaching out with God’s Love. We are fully affirming and know that God’s love is inclusive. You are seen. You are chosen, You are amazing. You are loved. You are unique. You are beautiful. God loves you for who you are.
Head to Fair Lawn to visit Cozie Cafe for superior service and personalized attention.
We started with the simple idea of bringing the best from us to you. From our founder to our front-line workers, we put lots of love and careful thought into all we do. We hope you enjoy all we have to offer, and share the experience with others.
Yummy, yummy Vegan Food! (All vegan) empanadas, mac n cheese with buffalo or bbq, buffalo and bbq sliders, tamale cakes. Feeling peckish? Stop over at the Freakin' Vegan and grab a bite!
Half Baked is a small-batch bakery located in Mahwah, known for over-the-top, crave-worthy treats that blend nostalgic flavors with playful twists. From their signature “Chonker” cookies, thick, gooey, and packed with mix-ins, to rotating weekly specials, everything is made by hand in a tiny kitchen with big personality. Whether you’re a classic chocolate chip fan or chasing the next viral dessert, Half Baked brings bold flavor and a little fun to every bite.
Meet Sleepy Moms Coffee A mobile coffee cart - founded by an Argentine Mom with a love for bringing people together over great coffee. Every menu is inspired by family, culture, and a little extra creativity. Serving up Latin-inspired specialty lattes, matchas, and refreshers across New Jersey. Our goal is simple: bring delicious coffee, warm vibes, and a little extra joy to every stop. Come say hi and grab your new favorite drink!
If you're looking for Tumblers, Mugs, Crochet buddies, key chains, Bookmarks, Ain't We Artsy is the place to go!
Anna Bella is an Intuitive Clairvoyant, Spiritualist, Certified Tarot Card Reader, Energy Healer, and Spiritual Medium. Stop by her booth and schedule a personalized intuitive reading rooted in both mystical depth and practical modern clarity.
I have been an artist since 4th grade, however, I did not start my own independent art business until 2024. I enjoy painting, making candles, soaps, jewelry, custom orders, and other items.
Making art and others happy is one of my many passions in life. I love art and hope to one day have my own art storefront.
Decorative and Practical Paraphernalia for the Modern Mystic. Our items are crafted by hand with the aim of infusing each and every piece with positive, healing energy. They are further infused with healing crystals to help one achieve their best self and ward off all negativity. Our decorative pieces will help fill your home with a sense of charm and wonder. While our practical items can help you in your quest to commune with the unseen.
Crafty Soul Creates is a crochet micro business that aims to put a smile on your face with every plushie. While mainly focused on creating Pokemon and other pop culture figures, nothing is out of the realm of possibility when it comes to what can be created with one hook, some yarn, and a big imagination!
Handmade Suds by Nic was a quarantine 2020 baby! I have always had a love for bar soap and would always collect them during travels, etc.
I decided it was time to make my OWN soap and control what ingredients I put in my bars. I use clean products in my daily regimen and I wanted to bring CLEAN
soap to you!
In the past few months, I have expanded from soap to candles, lip balms, sugar scrubs, and more! I pride myself on sourcing the best ingredients for you and
your family!
Hi, I'm Karol Rubio, the owner of KaritoCrochets! I've been immersed in the world of crochet for 17 years. What started as creating baby blankets and Halloween costumes for my daughters blossomed into a passion for amigurumi plushies in the last three years.
Crocheting is my joy—it's both meditative and incredibly rewarding to watch a cute plushie come to life. I especially love crafting chickens, Dolls, Totoro plushies, and other farm animals. Connecting with my customers and fellow artists at markets is truly a highlight and I can't wait to share my passion with you!
Esoteric & Talismanic Art.
Art is Magick! My works and wares are created by painting and collaging in reverse on acrylic sheeting. Their subjects consist of talismans, symbolic representations, abstracts, and coded formulae which draw luck, repel bad fortune, and celebrate the inner mysteries. Rooted deep in the collective unconscious, these creations combine alchemy, geometry, and other symbolic languages to evince a psycho-spiritual conversation with secret knowledge, making the transcendent transparent, and are an attractive addition to the décor of any home.
We’re a Black-owned and LGBTQ+-owned NerdCore and Handmade business. We handmade our merchandise, from jewelry to tees, stickers and even bookmarks. We’re passionate about diversity, freedom of expression, video games and Japanese media.
Poured Wax NYC is a Candle Store. We’re just a couple pouring wax to feed the soul. We use 100% Soy Wax w/Cherry Cedar Wicks. EVERYTHING IS MADE WITH love. We sell things you light.
Amazing jewelry from an LGBTQ+, POC, and woman led family business. We create adornments that spark joy and self expression for our customers.
A Rescue & Adoption Sanctuary for Cats of All Ages
Creating a world where every cat has a chance to live, love, and be loved. At Simba’s Sanctuary, we believe every cat deserves a second chance at a happy life. Our vision is to foster a community that values and respects animals, promoting responsible pet ownership and humane treatment. Join us in creating a world where every cat can live, love, and be loved.
Art, Healing, and Pride 🎨❤️ At Therapeutic Arts in Waldwick, Hillsdale and Pearl River, we believe therapy should be as unique as you are. We provide LGBTQ+ affirming individual therapy and dynamic group art therapy designed to help you process, connect, and thrive. No art experience required—just a desire to heal in a space that truly gets it. Proudly serving our community all year round
Artisanal Gemstone Jewelry Designs located at 10 S. Maple Ave. Ridgewood, NJ

