Urbana hosts second-largest Pride Fest in Illinois to mark 15 years of celebration

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Organizers said the annual Pride Fest is a reminder of the ongoing need for acceptance, resources, and advocacy throughout Central Illinois. Photo: Metro Services

URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — The streets of Urbana were filled with color, music, and celebration on Saturday as the city hosted the second-largest Pride festival in Illinois, marking 15 years of advocacy and community building by Uniting Pride of Champaign County.

The milestone event featured a parade, nearly 200 vendor booths, live music, and food trucks, transforming downtown Urbana into a space of joy and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community. Organizers said the annual Pride Fest is not only a celebration, but also a reminder of the ongoing need for acceptance, resources, and advocacy throughout Central Illinois.

To learn more about Uniting Pride’s programs and volunteer opportunities, visit Uniting Pride – Home.

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