CT’s oldest queer prom returns for its 30th year. How juniors and seniors can celebrate

Connecticut’s oldest Queer Prom is returning for its 30th year for high school juniors and seniors in Connecticut, according to a release.

The Health Collective’s 30th annual Queer Prom returns Friday, June 28, at the Bond Ballroom in Hartford, giving LGBTQIA+ students the chance to celebrate in a safe and fun way, per a release.

Its “Starry Night” theme will have students dancing beneath the stars in the Grand Ballroom overlooking the cityscape and Bushnell Memorial Park, according to a release.

Angel Reef, one of Hartford’s favorite drag queens, will be joining DJ Reefa, another Hartford native and queer community staple.

Students will have plenty more available to celebrate: hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, space to mix, mingle and take photos, and have tarot card readings, per a release. There will also be a safe and supportive space for students to decompress courtesy of Q-Plus in the form of a Sensory Room.

“The Health Collective is proud to offer our Queer Prom as a means to affirm, empower, and heal queer youth within Connecticut,” said David Grant, executive director of the Health Collective. “This experience provides a safe space free of the cisgender and heteronormative barriers which often deter LGBTQIA+ students from attending those within their own schools.”

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“As a city, Hartford is committed to continuing the work necessary to ensure we are an inclusive City,” said Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam. “It’s crucial that all of our residents feel safe, feel like they belong, and grow up feeling embraced by our community and those around them.”