The Lifelong Pride Gala: An Evening for Equality will light up Seattle on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at The Sanctuary downtown. As the city’s only Pride dinner, this highly anticipated event marks a historic moment as Lifelong’s inaugural gala with the aim of honoring progress, advancing inclusion, and supporting vital programs that make a difference.
The evening promises an unforgettable celebration of community, equity, and purpose. Hosted in partnership with Seattle Pride, the event will begin with a festive cocktail hour, where guests can mingle and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. A gourmet, chef-crafted seated dinner will follow, offering a culinary experience to match the night’s grandeur. The entertainment lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring a mix of charm, charisma, and performances that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
The gala will also feature a live auction, offering exclusive luxury items, including contemporary works by local artists, curated by Seattle Art Source founder Sarah Hurt. Proceeds from the auction will directly support Seattle Pride’s youth programs and Lifelong’s wraparound care, ensuring that the impact of the evening extends far beyond the event itself.
At the heart of the event is Lifelong, a Seattle-based nonprofit dedicated to improving lives through health and wellness programs. From delivering nutritious meals to providing housing support and HIV care, Lifelong’s work focuses on uplifting the most vulnerable in the community. The Pride Gala reflects this mission, bringing people together to celebrate progress while raising funds for those in need.
The organizers of the gala emphasize that it’s more than just a night out — it’s an opportunity for attendees to make a meaningful impact. By participating, guests enjoy an exceptional evening of food, entertainment, and connection, while also supporting programs that empower and uplift the LGBTQ+ community.
Wanting to know more about this historic event, I reached out to James Shackelford, the CEO of Lifelong, for additional insights.
Frank Gaimari: What inspired Lifelong to host its first Pride Gala?
James Shackelford: For 43 years, Lifelong has been deeply rooted in the LGBTQ+ community. [It was] originally founded to support those living with HIV. Over time, our services have expanded to assist a diverse range of clients facing serious illnesses, but our unwavering commitment to diversity, human rights, and equity remains at the core of everything we do.
The Pride Gala was created to offer Seattle a fresh and meaningful way to come together, celebrate our collective achievements, foster unity, and reflect on the important work that still lies ahead.
FG: How did the partnership with Seattle Pride come about?
JS: As we looked for ways to offer something truly special in Seattle, partnering with Seattle Pride was a natural fit. We wanted to shine a spotlight on the incredible work Seattle Pride does, especially through its youth programs. As a result, we’ve incorporated them as beneficiaries of the evening’s proceeds, helping raise awareness and support for their important initiatives.
FG: What can attendees expect at the event?
JS: This is Seattle’s only Pride dinner — a unique blend of celebration, concert, and fundraiser. Guests will kick off the evening with a lively cocktail hour, then move into the Sanctuary’s Grand Ballroom for a warm welcome from our host, Brad Goreski. Attendees will enjoy a seated, three-course dinner with wine pairings and a signature cocktail, all while honoring two influential leaders who have made significant strides for the LGBTQ+ community.
The evening will feature exciting performances by Miz Cracker and Macy Gray, with even more honorees and performers to be announced soon. In addition, we’ll raise vital funds for Seattle Pride and Lifelong through a live auction featuring luxury art curated by Seattle Art Source. The night will close with an electrifying performance by our surprise guest performer.
FG: How will the funds raised support Lifelong’s programs and Seattle Pride’s initiatives?
JS: Funds from the Pride Gala will directly support Seattle Pride’s youth programs, which create affirming spaces, provide meaningful leadership opportunities, and offer the support LGBTQIA2S+ young people need to truly thrive.
For Lifelong, proceeds will further our core belief that health and food are human rights. This means improving health systems, removing barriers to care, and supporting our clients with access to stable housing, lifesaving medications, the ability to age independently, HIV care and prevention, and nutritious food.
FG: Is there a dress code for the evening?
JS: The Pride Gala dress code is creative black tie. We’re hoping to see a mix of everything — whether that’s classic elegance, bold statements, or something uniquely you!
Tickets for the Lifelong Pride Gala are now on sale, with sponsorship opportunities available for those looking to amplify their support. For more information and to secure your spot, visit the event website at https://www.pridegala.org.
Frank Gaimari is an author and film reviewer in Seattle. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. You can learn more about his work at www.FrankGaimari.com.
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