This June, Araneta City transforms into a vibrant hub of expression and solidarity as it launches “Free To Be HUE,” a month-long campaign that highlights the many stories, identities, and experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community. Through art, movement, and community-driven activities, the City of Firsts reaffirms its commitment to ensuring its spaces remain inclusive environments where everyone feels seen, respected, and truly free to be themselves.
Beyond knowing who we love, we also celebrate those who have come to fully understand who they are and how they choose to express themselves. This is the heart of “Free To Be HUE,” honoring individuality, no matter the colors of your identity, while celebrating the beauty of a community that comes together in diversity. Symbolized by a colorful pinwheel, the campaign reflects every color represented in a community that moves together as one.
“This Pride Month, Araneta City celebrates the freedom to live authentically and express oneself without fear or judgment. Through ‘Free To Be HUE,’ we honor the many identities, stories, and experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community while continuing to foster spaces where everyone feels welcome and respected. As the City of Firsts, we remain committed to building a community grounded in inclusivity,” said Marjorie Go, Vice President for Marketing of Araneta City.
Express yourself at Free to be HUE Mural (June 2)
The City of Firsts will kick off Pride Month with the unveiling ceremony of the Free to be HUE mural, a symbolic and lasting expression of Araneta City’s commitment to inclusivity, acceptance, and self-expression to honor the LGBTQIA+ community and the diverse community. The mural outside the New Frontier Theater along Gen. Roxas Avenue serves as a lasting reminder that every person who steps inside Araneta City is welcomed, respected, and free to be themselves without judgment. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and distinguished members of LGBTQIA+ organizations will join the unveiling ceremony in support of Pride and inclusivity, and will also help paint the mural’s final touches to contribute to the shared artwork.
Jog for fitness and inclusivity at Pride Run (June 7)
The aRUNeta Run Club’s Pride Run at the Green Gate of Smart Araneta Coliseum goes beyond fitness by bringing together members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies in a shared movement for inclusivity and wellness. Joining as allies are candidates of Binibining Pilipinas 2026, further showing their support for the celebration. Participants are also encouraged to wear colors that represent them and bring pride flags to the run, with face painting available to make the celebration even more vibrant. In partnership with the Quezon City Health Department, the event also promotes awareness and safer communities through free HIV self-test kits and on-site screening services.
Bust a move at Quezon City Pride Dance Competition (June 9)
At Farmers Plaza, the Quezon City Pride Dance Competition celebrates identity through movement and performance. More than a showcase of talent, it gives members of the LGBTQIA+ community a platform to express themselves with confidence while sharing stories shaped by their journey and individuality.
Inclusive Graduation Rights (June 11)
At Gateway 2, Quantum Skyview, a special graduation ceremony will celebrate every students’ right to freely express their identities during one of life’s most meaningful milestones, especially honoring graduates who were previously denied the opportunity to march due to their SOGIE. The activity supports ongoing efforts toward more affirming and gender-inclusive spaces for young people. It also reaffirms the Quezon City LGU’s commitment to inclusive graduation rites for all students, as guided by the Department of Education’s Gender-Responsive Basic Education Policy.
Special Pride promo at World Kitchens (June 11)
As part of the City of Firsts’ Pride festivities, World Kitchens will offer a special Pride promo on June 11 — buy one mocktail and get one snack free. Open to all diners, the limited-time offering also serves as a special treat to rainbow graduates taking part in Graduation Rights. Head to Gateway Mall 2 to celebrate Pride Month with good food and meaningful moments.
Safe Space Session (June 18)
The Safe Space Session at Ali Mall will educate Araneta City lessees and staff on creating a more welcoming and respectful environment for LGBTQIA+ mallgoers and communities. Featuring resource speakers from the Quezon City Gender and Development Council, the session aims to encourage inclusivity and understanding in everyday public spaces, with the hope of making Araneta City a safer and more inclusive space for the community whenever they visit the City of Firsts.
Shop at the Pride Bazaar (June 26 to 28)
Araneta City partners with the Quezon City Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office to bring the Pride Bazaar to Farmers Plaza, providing a space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are also part of the local business sector to showcase food, crafts, trinkets, and other products that reflect their talent, creativity, and personal stories.
Celebrate authenticity at Lovelaban sa Araneta (June 27)
One of the most anticipated events of Araneta City’s Pride celebration is LoveLaban sa Araneta, in partnership with Pride PH, featuring performances from members of the LGBTQIA+ community. As Araneta City brings the spirit of LoveLaban closer to the community, attendees can catch performances from some of their favorite drag performers while celebrating pride, self-expression, and inclusivity. This marks the second year Araneta City will host a separate LoveLaban event apart from the other LoveLaban events across Quezon City.
“Pride Month is a celebration of identity, community, and the freedom to be yourself. At Araneta City, we believe inclusion goes beyond Pride Month and should be practiced every day through the spaces we create and the experiences we share. We remain committed to making the City of Firsts a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to express themselves freely,” said Go.
