 Let's keep the party going in June!
Join Downtown Clean & Safe to kick off the Summer of Love at Darcelle XV Plaza at the Spectacular-Spectacular Grand Opening on Thursday, June 25, 2026 from 5-10pm.
The Spectacular–Spectacular Grand Opening and the Summer of Love concert series mark a new era for Darcelle XV Plaza. Spectacular–Spectacular will debut the plaza with an unforgettable celebration of performance, color, and community, honoring Darcelle's legacy while welcoming Portland into its newest civic gathering space.
Summer of Love carries that energy forward with a curated series of free outdoor concerts and cultural moments designed to fill the plaza with music, movement, and connection all season long. This is more than programming, it's the transformation of a public space into a living, joyful stage for the city.
Honoring Darcelle XV
Portland City Council unanimously voted to rename the downtown gathering space formerly known as O'Bryant Square to Darcelle XV Plaza on July 13, 2023.
This momentous decision paid tribute to the legendary drag performer and LGBTQ+ icon, Darcelle XV, while celebrating the vibrant LGBTQ+ history and culture that have shaped Portland.
Darcelle XV Plaza honors the remarkable legacy of Walter Cole, known by the stage name Darcelle XV. For over five decades, Darcelle XV enchanted audiences with dazzling performances, infectious energy, and a powerful message of acceptance and inclusivity.
"By renaming O'Bryant Square to Darcelle XV Plaza, we are embracing and celebrating the indelible contributions of Darcelle XV to our city's LGBTQ+ community," stated [then Parks Commissioner] Dan Ryan when the name change was approved. "This renaming reflects our commitment to fostering a more inclusive city that recognizes the diversity and immense value of its residents."
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