Celebrate PRIDE in Stockton, CA with these LGBTQIA+ friendly spots and businesses

With the Stonewall Uprising in 1969 as its genesis, June is honored as a time for members of the LGBTQIA+ community to celebrate their existence without fear of harm or injustice. For over 5 decades, this nation-wide tradition continues with art, music, film, parades, friendly gatherings, and an overall theme of “love is love.” Stockton is no exception, thanks to its vibrant LGBTQIA+ community and the strong support system behind it. Here are just a few of the safe space, LGBTQIA+ friendly spots and businesses in our city that are perfect for PRIDE and all year long.

San Joaquin Pride Center

First off is the San Joaquin Pride Center. Located in Yosemite Street Village, the SJPC serves the diverse LGBTQIA+ community in San Joaquin County and the surrounding areas by creating a safe and welcoming space. A central location for everything from physical/mental health resources and tests to educating the public in tolerance and respect for all people, the SJPC also holds live public events like movie nights and drag shows. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with what’s going on in the community!

Side note: Terra Coffee is just across the street, providing a great spot for delicious coffee and inclusivity.

Central Valley Gender Health & Wellness

The Central Valley Gender Health & Wellness is "committed to championing equity and well-being for all, with a special focus on uplifting QTPOC communities." This spot offers a variety of services to the LGBTQIA+ community, including healthcare resources & referrals, advocacy & legal support, mental health & wellness support, community outreach & education, and more. You can follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates for upcoming events.

In Season Market & Nursery

Residing a block away from Oak Park on Alpine Ave., In Season Market & Nursery was founded by native Stocktonians who dreamt of offering a wide range of local organic and naturally-grown fresh produce and artisan foods. Their dream came true—along with the best nursery plants for you to choose from. One step inside and you’re surrounded by produce and foods that are currently "in season." Plus, they serve up locally made soaps & gardening supplies, delicious espresso & specialty coffee, and rare plants. All this inside a warm and welcoming environment that you’ll just love.

Trail Coffee

Trail Coffee in Downtown is known for serving up superb hot coffee and tasty treats within an inclusive setting with chill vibes. But did you know they do more than that? They also feature their “Trail After Dark,” where this coffeeshop turns into a thrilling venue for musical performances and live entertainment. From 90s Trivia Night to Taco Tuesday Drag Bingo, all our welcome to partake in the diverse fun and inclusive setting.

Cuco Etc. Mixology

This pop-up shop offers a vibrant mix of food and drink that is sure to please any palate. You can choose from fresh fruit on tap, dairy-free horchata, juice shots, vegan gummies, and vegan food for you to savor. They’ve been all over the city for special events, including Stockton Vegan Market. With all this and an atmosphere of acceptance and diversity, you can’t go wrong picking up some goodies from them.

Paradise Night Club

Stockton's one and only gay bar provides an exciting spot for those looking for a fun night in a safe space. Located on Lower Sacramento Road at the Lower Sacramento Plaza, Paradise features drink specials, live djs, music, drag shows, karaoke, and so much more! Get your friends together and dance the night away!

• Yosemite Street Music - This spot offers a safe space for those curious about learning an instrument and for those continuing to excel in their artistic craft. Music has the power to bring people together and Yosemite Street Music provides the perfect venue to pursue that togetherness. A "beautiful store with a great selection and amazing customer service." (Google reviews)
• The Catalyst Arts & Wellness Studio – With a goal to help contribute in creating a culture in our community that encourages and supports the arts, The Catalyst wellness program consists of Yoga, Meditation, and Zumba classes, as well as support groups for different needs within the Stockton community.
• Stockton Civic Theatre - A home for Stockton thespians since 1950, SCT provides an inclusive atmosphere for all artists to express themselves through beautifully presented stage performances. Producing 5 shows and 3 Black Box shows a year, plus a summer youth program called SCT, Jr., Stockton Civic Theatre provides a venue for ALL entertainers to be freely themselves and master their craft.

Bonus: PRIDE events happening this year!

Stockton and Lodi have big PRIDE events happening this year and we recommend you check them out! Click on these great events below and learn more about celebrating our LGBTQIA+ community!

June

• San Joaquin PRIDE Center presents "Drag Daddy to Dinner." Make your way over to Sheila B'z on Friday, June 6 at 5 pm for a night of bold brunch flavors, fierce drag, and unforgettable fun! A chicken & waffles brunch buffet, a “daddy” dance off, music bingo, and so much more await you!
• Lodi PRIDE. This event, hosted by A New Lodi, is happening Saturday, June 14 from 10 am - 5 pm at Hutchins Street Square. It will be a family friendly celebration with music, live entertainment, food vendors, drag performances, carnival games, and more.
• Stockton Cargo vs Pleasanton Rage SC PRIDE NIGHT. Watch Stockton's women of the pitch do battle AND celebrate PRIDE with their PRIDE NIGHT game on Saturday, June 14 at 7 pm over at Knoles Field at University of the Pacific!
• Camp Delusions: A Drag and Burlesque Show. Enjoy a night of glamour, outrageous performances, and over-the-top theatrics at the Goodwin Gallery on Friday, June 20 at 7 pm. The amount of fierce drag, hot burlesque, and attitude is a perfect way to end the work week and head into the weekend!
• Stockton PRIDE 2025. Happening Saturday, June 21 from 11 am - 5pm at the Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium, this spectacular event put on by Central Valley Gender Health and Wellness will feature live musical entertainment, drag performances, local vendors, community resources, delicious food & drinks, and more!

October

• Stockton PRIDE with the San Joaquin Pride Center. The San Joaquin PRIDE Center's 14th annual all-day event happens Saturday, October 4 at Yosemite Street Village. This LGBTQIA+ celebration is a Stockton tradition that will feature an exciting entertainment lineup, delicious food, creative artists & vendors, fun activities, sponsors, and so much more. Keep an eye on this event for more details to come.

Know of a fantastic, LGBTQIA+ friendly spot in Stockton not listed? Message us with it or tag us on social when you’re there!

Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community looking for more resources or an ally interested in volunteering your time? Get in contact with the San Joaquin Pride Center and Central Valley Gender Health & Wellness.

Why not stay the night in town? Stockton is home to numerous fantastic hotels located in key parts of the city that make it easy for a shopping spree and savoring delicious cuisine. Learn more about the outstanding hotels in our city by clicking here!

Need more recommendations throughout Stockton? You can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in and around Stockton.

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