As Pride Month 2024 approaches, it’s the perfect time to start planning celebrations that honor the LGBTQ+ community and all its vibrant diversity. Whether you’re organising a corporate event, community gathering, or online competition, thoughtful and inclusive prizes can add a special touch to your celebrations. Here are some prize ideas that not only celebrate pride but also support LGBTQ+ businesses and artists.
1. LGBTQ+ Owned Business Gift Cards
Gift cards are always a popular prize, but why not take it up a notch by supporting LGBTQ+-owned businesses? From cosy cafes and bookstores to trendy clothing stores and artisanal shops, there are countless businesses to choose from. Websites like OutBritain provide directories to help you find local and national LGBTQ+-owned businesses to support. Shops like PROUD Beer even donate 20p from each sale to LGBTQI+ charities.
2. Customised Pride Month Apparel
Customized Pride-themed apparel can be both fun and meaningful. Consider partnering with local artists to create unique designs for T-shirts, hats, or tote bags. Not only does this provide winners with a special keepsake, but it also supports the creative community. Ensure the designs celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ+ spectrum, including different gender identities and sexual orientations.
3. Inclusive Literature Collections
Books have the power to educate, inspire, and connect us. Consider curating a collection of inclusive literature as a prize. This could include novels, memoirs, and poetry by LGBTQ+ authors, as well as books that explore LGBTQ+ themes. Titles like “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston, “We Have Always Been Here: A Queer Muslim Memoir” by Samra Habib, and “The Black Flamingo” by Dean Atta are popular choices.
4. Wellness Packages
Self-care is essential, and a wellness package can make a thoughtful prize. Include items like aromatherapy candles, bath bombs, skincare products, and calming teas. To make it extra special, consider sourcing these items from LGBTQ+-owned brands like Dr Botanicals. This not only makes the prize more meaningful but also supports the community.
5. Event Tickets
Offering tickets to LGBTQ+ events or experiences can be a fantastic prize. This could include passes to Pride parades, LGBTQ+ film festivals, theater productions, or concerts featuring queer artists. Experiences create lasting memories and offer winners the chance to celebrate Pride in a communal and exciting way.
6. Subscription Services
Subscription services can be both practical and delightful. Consider offering subscriptions to streaming services that feature LGBTQ+ content, book clubs that focus on queer literature, or even monthly snack boxes from LGBTQ+-owned companies. These prizes keep the celebration going long after Pride Month ends.
7. Art and Home Décor
Artwork and home décor that celebrate LGBTQ+ pride can be beautiful and meaningful additions to any home. Look for prints, sculptures, or handcrafted items by LGBTQ+ artists. Not only do these items serve as a reminder of Pride Month, but they also support queer creatives.
8. Charitable Donations
For a prize with a purpose, consider making a charitable donation in the winner’s name to an LGBTQ+ organisation. This could be to groups advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, providing support services to queer youth, or working towards greater inclusivity and acceptance. Winners will appreciate knowing that their prize is helping to make a difference.
9. Virtual Classes and Workshops
Offer winners the opportunity to learn something new with virtual classes and workshops. From cooking and mixology classes to art and dance lessons, there are endless possibilities. Look for LGBTQ+ instructors or organisations that offer these experiences to keep the support within the community.
10. Decorative Pride Flags and Accessories
Pride flags and accessories such as pins, bracelets, and stickers are timeless and meaningful prizes. They allow winners to express their identity proudly and visibly, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
11. Tech Gadgets
Tech-savvy prizes are always a hit. Consider items like smartwatches, wireless earbuds, or portable chargers. These practical yet exciting gifts can make daily life a little easier and a lot more fun.
Conclusion
Pride Month is a time to celebrate love, diversity, and progress. By choosing thoughtful and inclusive prizes, you not only honor the spirit of the month but also support the LGBTQ+ community in meaningful ways. Whether you opt for gift cards, customised apparel, literature, wellness packages, event tickets, subscription services, art, charitable donations, or virtual classes, your prizes can help make Pride Month 2024 a truly memorable and impactful celebration.
With over 30 years of experience with prize fulfilment, we know what works and – perhaps most importantly – what doesn’t work.
Get in touch today to find out how our team can help you plan your Pride Month prizes!
For more information on Pride Month, we recommend checking out this article by Today.
