Chicago is home to the nation’s first recognized LGBTQ community and the annual Chicago Pride Fest is one of its most anticipated community events. The fest returns on June 21-22, 2025, with three stages of music, vendors, food, drinks and fun.
Photo courtesy of Steven M. Koch, Chicago Pride Fest
Kicking off the weekend before the Chicago Pride Parade on the last Sunday in June, Chicago Pride Fest is a legendary street fest that celebrates gay culture with drag shows, demos, giveaways, a pet parade and lots of dancing.
Pride Fest features live music on three stages, a Youth Pride Space for teens, best of Chicago drag performance, the Proud Pet Parade with prizes, dance exhibitions, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, guest speakers and over 150 food and merchandise vendors.
The fest runs from 11 am- 10 pm every day on Halsted Street from Addison to Grace St.. Admission is free but there is a $20 suggested donation to benefit local charities. Note: Large bags or backpacks are not allowed.
Chicago Pride Fest
June 21-22, 2025
11 am-10 pm
Halsted St. between Addison and Grace
Free with a $20 suggested donation
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