Events for LGBTQ+

Madhouses, Asylums, and Mental Hospitals: The Invisible History of Institutionalization

The Invisible History of Institutionalization. Join Dr. Matthew Wappett, Executive Director of the USU IDRPP, to learn why understanding this dark past is the only way to safeguard our future."Out of sight, out of mind" was once official policy for people with disabilities in the U.S. and without vigilance, it could be again. This talk exposes the sordid history of institutionalization and analyzes the modern political forces threatening to reverse decades of hard-won progress. https://fernandesscholarshipfund.org

Registration and more info: “Madhouses, Asylums, and Mental Hospitals Tickets, Thursday, Apr 23 from 6:30 pm to 8 pm | Eventbrite



Queer Food Festival

In partnership with local LGBTQ and ally-owned and operated restaurants, breweries, and providers of spirits, the Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present the 2026 Queer Food Festival - a springtime celebration of community and abundance! The focus of the FEAST will not only be the food, but also the nourishment we provide each other through gathering and breaking bead together -- a taste of Queer Salt Lake! This Friday evening event will feature culinary creations, craft cocktails, and fabulous entertainment. Join in the fun and help support our local entertainers & food/beverage suppliers. Purchase tickets at: https://www.utahlgbtqchamber.org/utah-lgbtq-queer-food-feastival/



Queer Spectra Arts Festival 2026: Troubling the Lines

Queer Spectra Arts Festival aims to present a diverse array of voices, backgrounds, experiences, cultures, mediums, and artistic disciplines in order to celebrate queer artistic expressions. The Festival challenges and contributes to contemporary understanding of queer discourse while promoting nuanced conversations between artists and audiences about queer identity and art.

Save the date for Queer Spectra’s 8th Annual Festival: Troubling the Lines. We can’t wait to see you for an incredible weekend of queer art! May 14 - May 16

More info: Call for Artists — QUEER SPECTRA ARTS FESTIVAL



Queerby Block Party

S&S Presents Queerby Block Party With Special guests Pattie Gonia, SequoiaVera!, DJ's Matt Suave & Raecola. Doors at 9:30 pm, show at 10 pm for this all ages event.

Tickets and more info: Queerby Block Party feat. Pattie Gonia - Saturday May 16th, 2026 At The Complex Salt Lake City, Utah Events



KRCL Presents: Indigo Girls at The Eccles Theater

Across four decades, 16 studio albums, and over 15 million records sold, Indigo Girls continue to blaze the trail for generations of Queer artists in the mainstream. More info and tickets at https://live-at-the-eccles.com/events/indigo-girls



“Hope or Despair: The 1943 Zoot Suit Riots and Our Current Moment”

The lectures were envisioned as a space to start conversations about gender, sexuality, and race. They aim to provide a safe and inclusive environment. In these informal lectures, experts in their field will share their knowledge. They will invite the audience to engage with the topic by asking questions. Participants can also present their perspectives. 

https://fernandesscholarshipfund.org/