Jim Obergefell headlines Marriage Equality Celebration during Shoreline Pride in Sandusky

Equality Sandusky is proud to announce Shoreline Pride 2025, a vibrant and expansive weeklong celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, visibility, and progress taking place throughout downtown Sandusky and Shoreline Park.

Anchored by the 10th anniversary of Obergefell v. Hodges—the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide—the festivities began on June 14 and run through June 28, featuring events that span health advocacy, comedy, drag, live music, panel discussions, and family fun.

Featured Event: A Celebration of Marriage Equality – Thursday, June 26

The cornerstone of this year’s Pride celebration is “A Celebration of Marriage Equality,” taking place on Thursday, June 26 at 126 Event Venue—the exact 10-year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges.  This powerful evening will feature Jim Obergefell, the named plaintiff in the historic case and a nationally recognized voice for LGBTQ+ equality and civil rights. A Sandusky native, Obergefell has continued to champion justice and dignity since the 2015 ruling, helping shape the national conversation around equality and inclusion.

Jim Obergefell has become a leading advocate for justice and dignity since his landmark case reshaped the national dialogue. He co-authored Love Wins and co-founded Equality Vines, a Sonoma-based wine label that benefits civil rights organizations. He is also the Executive Producer of The JustMarried Project, a multimedia initiative chronicling the love stories that powered the marriage equality movement. Obergefell serves on the boards of Family Equality and Equality Sandusky and has contributed to numerous publications, podcasts, and policy initiatives nationwide.

The evening will also feature a live auction, small plates, cocktails, and a panel discussion titled “Growing Up LGBTQIA+ in Sandusky,”featuring:

• Jim Obergefell, LGBTQIA+ civil rights advocate
• Tim Murray, comedian and actor (HBO Max, Edinburgh Fringe Festival)
• Grace Ellis, NYT–bestselling and GLAAD Media Award–winning scriptwriter
• Mickey Andrew, local trans advocate
• Moderator: Nathan Schaefer, Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Access, National Bleeding Disorders Foundation

Doors open at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $100 for general admission or $150 for VIP (including reserved seating and a meet-and-greet). Advanced tickets are required and available at www.ShorelinePrideSandusky.com.

Main Event: Shoreline Pride Parade & Festival –  Saturday, June 28

Shoreline Pride concludes with a full-day celebration on Saturday, June 28, starting with the Shoreline Pride Parade at 11:00 AM and continuing with the Pride Festival at Shoreline Park from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Attendees can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, drinks, community resources, and a variety of family-friendly activities.  Shoreline Pride Parade and Festival are free to attend.

Festival Highlights Include:

Pavilion Stage (11 AM – 4 PM), hosted by Joey Fox:

• DJ-Flo
• NY EL
• HEKTIKT Ballroom
• Family-Friendly Drag Bingo
• Comic Book Workshop with Grace Ellis

Main Stage (4 PM – 10 PM), hosted by Tim Murray & Michael Henry:

• The Melrose Project
• Magician Michael Mage
• The 80s Ladies
• Main Stage Drag Show
• Pride Dance Party with DJ J-Flo

The festival also includes face painting, caricatures, interactive games, and community organization booths. Beer, wine, and seltzer stations will be available on-site.

Additional Pride Week Events:

• Tuesday, June 17 – Pride Meet & Greet, 4:30–7:30 PM, Paddle Bar, 305 E Water St, Sandusky
• Friday, June 20 – Halo Live Drag Bash (90s Dance Party), 7:00 PM, 805 Wayne St, Sandusky
• Wednesday, June 25 – Tim Murray: Live Comedy, 7:00 PM, Harlequins Coach House Theatre, 414 Wayne St, Sandusky
• Friday, June 27 – Goodtime I Pride Party Cruise, 7:00–10:00 PM, Jackson Street Pier ($30)
• Friday, June 27 – Super Troupers: ABBA Tribute, 7:30–11:00 PM, Barrel House Saloon (Free), 101 E. Shoreline Drive, Sandusky

Tickets, schedules, and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.ShorelinePrideSandusky.com.

About Equality Sandusky

Equality Sandusky was founded to foster equity, dignity, and visibility for LGBTQIA+ individuals across the Sandusky Bay region.  Through advocacy, community events, and education, the organization envisions a future where all people can live openly, safely, and proudly.

Special thanks to the City of Sandusky, the Sandusky Police and Fire Departments, and the Sandusky Recreation team for their continued support and partnership in making Shoreline Pride possible.  Additionally, Equality Sandusky extends gratitude to the Erie County Community Foundation and Shores & Islands Ohio for generous grant support, a host of local businesses who have generously sponsored the event, and to all supporters of LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies in the Sandusky Bay region. 🔥