Pride Fest Archives • Northalsted Business Alliance

Chicago Pride Fest 2025

Jesse McCartney, Deborah Cox, Aluna, Confidence Man and The Aces to headline 24th Annual Chicago Pride Fest

June 21-22

Jesse McCartney, Deborah Cox, Aluna, Confidence Man and The Aces
are headlining the 24th annual Chicago Pride Fest 2025 taking place June 21- 22, 2025 in the iconic Northalsted neighborhood. Other artists appearing include Hayla, Chrissy Chlapecka, Snow Wife, Black Girl Magic hosted by The Vixen with very special guest TBA and local favorites Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute, Too Much Molly Band and Sixteen Candles plus many more!

Jesse McCartney, Deborah Cox, Confidence Man, The Aces, Aluna

The two-day street festival is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ life, culture, and community. It is located on Halsted Street between Addison + Grace, in Chicago’s historic LGBTQ+ business district. The festival runs 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. daily and features live music on three stages, Chicago’s finest drag artists, dance exhibitions, guest speakers, food, drinks, and over 150 art, merchandise and service vendors.

Returning this year, Pride Fest will have a dedicated Teen Pride Space for LGBTQ+ teens and allies aged 12-18, located near the Waveland + Broadway entrance. The space is being created in cooperation with the Center on Halsted and will be open from 12 – 5p.m. on both days, offering performances, food and drinks, DJ sessions, dancing, games, giveaways, and counseling and support resources.

Hayla, Chrissy Chlapecka, Snow Wife, Sixteen Candles

“We are thrilled to come together to celebrate community and uplift each other in the struggle for equality and human rights,” said Mark Liberson, Northalsted Business Alliance Vice-President and Festival Committee Chairperson. “Despite decades of progress, the need for Pride has not lessened, as prejudice-rooted legislation, demonization of our community, and lethal violence, especially against our transgender and BIPOC community members, are on the rise.”

A $20 suggested donation for entry helps to pay performers and festival workers and supports local non-profits and community programs, such as the landmark status Chicago Pride Crosswalks, which consist of 14 rainbow-paved intersections installed in 2019, making up the longest installation of its kind in the world.

The complete daily schedule will be announced shortly.

Stay up to date, follow us on Instagram:
@northalsted and @pridefestchicago

Market Days 2024 Recap

We’re deeply touched by the overwhelming success of Market Days 2024, a standout moment in our 42-year journey. Every single year, we continue to be wowed by the amount of support and talent we are graced with and this year was definitely no exception. We extend our sincere gratitude to our sponsors, vendors, donors, and volunteers memorable!

From International DJ sets to RuPaul’s Drag Starlet, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute to flying confetti, Market Days 2024 had something for everyone this fine weekend in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood. Not only was the talent off the charts, but our vendors and exhibitors brought the fire with their impressive eats and booth setups offering a variety of cuisine and adorable photoshoot opportunities. The smiles were simply never ending.

Photo by Tyler Worek

Artist Reveiw

Strutting her stuff like nobody’s business, the queen of all queens, Alyssa Edwards, stole our Saturday night event with a performance that didn’t just cross boundaries, it pole-vaulted over them. With her signature splits and high kicks all set to her self-produced rap track, it’s safe to say she had the audience eating out of her perfectly manicured hands.

But it wasn’t just about the dance moves – oh no! Alyssa turned a simple lip sync of “When Love Takes Over” into an interactive spectacle, charting new territory by weaving her way through the crowd. With a little help from a gallant fan-turned-human-stilt, Alyssa turned an unplanned moment into a show-stopping finale, firmly stamping her status as not just a performer, but a master of improvisation. Now that’s what you call a real crowd pleaser!

photos: above, Steve Koch
below: Kate Scott

Performer Showcase

Big Freedia let us “release the stress” and lit up our Addison stage on Sunday afternoon, inviting up fans upon fans to strut their stuff and show us their best moves.

Saturday night, Billy Porter stunned the crowd with his stellar bedazzled jumpsuit and tulle coat combo, showcasing his stellar vocals on various songs off of his new album, “Black Mona Lisa”.

photo: Steven Koch

Dragonette brought the fire to the Addison Stage Saturday evening, captivating the crowd with her infectious energy and signature electro-pop sound featuring fan favorites like “Hello” and more that kept the crowds bumping.

Coco & Breezy held the biggest dance party on Sunday at the Belmont Stage on Sunday while they spun their set, and Sixteen Candles made their triumphant return to Northalsted at the Nissan Partners of Progress Stage, giving the crowd the biggest wave of nostalgia with everyone’s favorite 80s hits.

Speaking of cover artists, we had familiar faces return for another year of Market Days, including Rod Tuffcurls and the Bench Press, showcasing some originals as well as a cover of Chappell Roan’s “Red Wine Supernova”, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute, making everyone feel like they are young, sweet, and seventeen again, and Radio Gaga, transcending generations by performing songs by Queen and Lady Gaga.

Our Belmont stage could be described as a constant party. With Coco & Breezy headlining Sunday night, Market Days Drag Revue, Body Confidence for Queens, MVTE, and so many more talented babes, the energy was infectious.

Above Photo: Tyler Worek

RaiNao stunned the crowd, closing out Market Days on Sunday night with her set, showing off her stunning vocals and incredible songwriting ability. At the Belmont stage on Saturday, Lauren Sanderson gave Chicago a preview of what to expect when she comes back through in November for her solo tour.

Photo by Kate Scott

BRAND ACTIVATIONS THAT WOWED

Can we talk about the brands that really brought their A-game? From pop-up experiences that felt like stepping into a dreamscape (complete with bubble machines and beats, to delicious food + drink samples that had everyone frantically lining up, the creativity was off the charts. We are so impressed with our vendors and their amazing booth set up and marketing skills from Sidetrack’s Brat Summer Photo Op to ViiV Healthcare’s ReThink Your Prep booth, all the way to Replay’s 360 Summer Bash stage complete with…coconut trees. Special shoutout to our Market Days 2024 Sponsors who made this wonderful weekend possible.

Check out all the photos our amazing photographers captured this year by clicking the button below!

SAVE THE DATE

Can’t wait for next year just yet? Let the countdown begin! Next year’s Market Days will be August 9 – 10, so mark your calendars now and get hyped for all the excitement to come.

YOU MAKE MARKET DAYS POSSIBLE

Thank you for your Market Days 2024 Donations! You all are rockstars and the reason we are able to continue the tradition of Market Days in Northalsted. Your donation helps pay performers & festival workers and supports charities, non-profits & community programs like the Chicago Pride Crosswalks. Thank you!

2024 Sponsors

Thank you to the 2024 sponsors and partners who help make Market Days possible.

Visit our full sponsor listing for links to businesses and media who support the LGBTQ+ community.

Chicago Pride Fest 2024 Recap

Chicago Pride Fest Steven Koch @smkphotog 137

The 23rd Chicago Pride Fest was a celebration to remember! With record breaking attendance, two food courts, new spaces for teens & seniors, and a wide variety of entertainment; the event broke new ground and brought us together for an LGBTQ+ celebration like no other.

Mark your calendars for Chicago Pride Fest 2025 on June 21st-22nd. Pride brings the community together today and every day in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood. See below for a recap on the festivities!

JoJo Siwa

Pop star, TV personality and singer/dancer JoJo Siwa created a sensation on Saturday, with record breaking attendance.

She performed her latest hit “Karma” to a very enthusiastic audience, showing off her signature dance moves and sassy personality.

Her Chicago Pride Fest performance was also a viral sensation online. JoJo’s Pride Fest posts topped 14+ million views on her Instagram and news of the attendance made People, the Sun Times, ABC7 and other feeds.

photos: above, Steven Koch;
below: Steven Koch (ul), Ken Brown (ur), Kate Scott

Performer Showcase

Pride Fest’s other headliners included Natasha Bedingfield performing everyone’s favs, including “Unwritten” as her finale. Sapphira Cristal, Max Rae & John Duff all showed off their vocal/dance chops too on the North Stage.

On Sunday, Bob the Drag Queen wowed us with a tight set of comedic wit and biting hip hop. Amber Riley stunned everyone with a live debut of her new cover of McArthur Park; special guest, pianist Micah McLaurin joined her on stage. Australian Alex Lahey rounded out the stage with an indie, pop-punk sound.

Sixteen Candles and Too Much Molly Band knocked our socks off at the South Stage Saturday. While Empress Of and Aya Ito brought the beats on Sunday, topping Peach Presents lineup of BIPOC artists.

CircuitMOM x DJ Alex Lo and DJ Avi Sic closed the Waveland Stage Saturday and Sunday respectively. Both sets were a spectacle of music, beats, and vibes!

Click below for photo galleries from the event and check back for more!

Senior Pride

On Sunday, the Center on Halsted hosted a new Senior Pride program on the 3rd floor for 55+ LGBTQ+. There were refreshments and a lively performance by the Lakeside Pride Strayhorns jazz ensemble.

photos: Kate Scott

Teen Pride Space

The Center on Halsted and Walgreens teamed up to provide a space for teens, families and allies at Broadway & Waveland just inside the East Gate to the fest. Over 600 young people visited the space over the weekend, enjoying youth drag performance, creative activities, a family space and refreshments.

Highlights included speaking appearances by Alderperson Lamont Robinson (4th Ward), Alderperson Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth (48th Ward), and Alderperson Bennett Lawson (44th Ward).

Exhibitions

Chicago Pride Fest featured entertaining exhibitions by Chicago Spirit Brigade, Firebrand country western line dancing, Servin Fysh Dance Co, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus.

photos: Del Nakamura

Proud Pet Parade

Miss Foozie’s 18th Annual Pride Fest Proud Pet Parade was a fun time for Chicago’s Proudest Pets!

Congrats to the winner of a $250 gift from Wrigleyville Veterinary Center! (below) This 3-legged cutie has the perfect drag name ‘Anita Legg’ and good taste in wigs.

Additional prizes by:
Lola & Bowie Store
Pawsome Pet Pals – Dog Walking/Cat Visits
A Dog’s Best Friend – Dog Walking/Grooming

Photos: gopride.com

2024 Sponsors

Thank you to the 2024 sponsors and partners who help make Chicago Pride Fest possible.

Visit our full sponsor listing for links to businesses and media who support the LGBTQ+ community.

Celebrating Pride and Fun at the Rainbow Tour Northalsted Pride Bar Crawl

As June comes to a close, so does the vibrant celebration of Pride Month. In the heart of Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood, the Rainbow Tour Pride Bar Crawl was a standout event that encapsulated everything joyful and inclusive about Pride. We had the pleasure of attending this colorful extravaganza and it was an unforgettable experience!

One of the highlights of the Rainbow Tour Bar Crawl was undoubtedly the swag. Participants were decked out in an array of rainbow-colored accessories—from hats and sunglasses to beads and flags. Each venue along the crawl offered something special, whether it was a complimentary visor, t-shirt, or a fun sticker to add to your collection. It was a fantastic way to show off your pride and take a piece of the celebration home with you.

Of course, what’s a bar crawl without some delicious drinks? With 10 participating locations, attendees were guaranteed a GOOD time. The participating bars and restaurants pulled out all the stops with their Pride-themed cocktails and specials. Starting off strong at Sidetrack, all participants were able to sample free Tito’s Vodka to kick off the crawl. From the North End, Replay, Progress Bar, to Lark, each drink we had was amazing.

Once our group acquired stamps from all locations, we returned to Sidetrack for one final drink and more prizes. Attendees also had the opportunity to enter a raffle by participating in a scavenger hunt centered around the historical Northalsted Pylons. Participants were encouraged to read a bit about the history of the LGBTQ+ community along the crawl and answer questions to win even more swag.

Cheers to love, cheers to diversity, and cheers to a future where every month feels like Pride Month.

Be sure to keep an eye out for more fun crawls and events throughout the year.

Special thanks to all our participating venues and sponsors.

Pride Parade Weekend and More in Northalsted

Summer is heating up in Northalsted! We have the perfect lineup to polish off Pride Month and even more to get you through the week! Stop by Big Gay Sals for a slice to fuel up before the Pride Bar Crawl then dance your heart out at Hydrate with DJ KidRiot & VJ George G!

Photo by Sidetrack

It’s Pride Fest Weekend! Check Out What’s Next in Northalsted

Copy of ChicagoPrideFest19 RickMajewski Northalsted GoPride com

Besties, it’s PRIDE FEST WEEKEND and you all know what that means: It’s GO TIME. Northalsted has TONS of events and specials happening this weekend to kick-off Pride Fest continuing through the following week. Check out this year’s Pride Fest Schedule below and all the goodies our Northalsted businesses have to offer.

Photo by Rick Majewski

Chicago Pride Fest 2024 Countdown

Pride Fest 2024 See Us 0613B Story copy 3

COUNTDOWN TO PRIDE FEST

Chicago Pride Fest, June 22-23. 2 Days, 3 Stages, 40+ Performers. Join us for a weekend celebrating LGBTQ+ Life & Community in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood.

Click below for full stage schedules.

CHICAGO’S GOT TALENT

Chicago Pride Fest is an awesome showcase of not only top international performers, DJs and Chicago’s Best Drag, but also LGBTQ+ and Allied vocalists, musicians, and dancers!

DANCING QUEEN: AN ABBA SALUTE

North Stage, Sun 5:15pm

CHICAGO SPIRIT BRIGADE

South Stage, Sat 2:00pm, Sun 12:30pm

SERVIN’ FYSH DANCE CO.

North Stage, Sat 3:30pm

FIREBRAND

North Stage, Sun 12:30pm

CHICAGO GAY MEN’S CHORUS

South Stage, Sun 1:00pm

ULTRABEAT

North Stage, Sat 5:00pm

SENIOR PRIDE

Center on Halsted, 3rd Floor

Sun 12-4pm, Age 55+, Free Admission

12:00pm – Refreshments
1:00pm – Lakeside Pride Strayhorns
3:00pm – Sweets Table

Info: Britta Larson blarson@centeronhalsted.org

TEEN PRIDE SPACE

Presented by Center on Halsted & Walgreens
at Broadway & Waveland

Sat-Sun 11am-6pm, Age 12-18, Free Admission

1:30pm – Open Mic Performers
3:00pm – Teen Drag

All Day Activities:

Family Area/ Refreshments
Face Painting
Button Making/ Crafts
Photo Booth
Gender Affirming Closet

Community Partner Programming:

PrEP4Teens
PHIMC/Illinois Safe Schools Alliance,
Center on Halsted’s HIV/STI Testing & Prevention
The Hub, Curie High School GSA

PROUD PET PARADE

Sun 12:00-12:30pm, Free Registration

Join Miss Foozie for Chicago’s Proudest Pets and a rainbow strut down North Halsted for fun & prizes sponsored by:

$250 Wrigleyville Veterinary Center gift
$100 Lola & Bowie Store gift
$50 Pawsome Pet Pals
A Dog’s Best Friend – Dog Walking/Grooming

Register at North Stage (Halsted & Grace)

VOLKSWAGEN

The more you look, the more you’ll love.

Get up close and personal with the VW lineup at Chicago Pride Fest and receive a complimentary gift while supplies last. Explore the 2024 Atlas at vw.com.

CHICAGO PRIDE FEST

Chicago Pride Fest® is a two-day street festival on June 22-23, 2024; the weekend before the Chicago Pride Parade (June 30, 2024).

The 23rd annual Chicago Pride Fest is a celebration of LGBTQ+ life, culture and community in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted neighborhood.

Pride Fest showcases live music on 3 stages, a Youth Pride Space for teens, best of Chicago drag performance, the Proud Pet Parade ft. Miss Foozie w/prizes, LGBTQ+ dance exhibitions, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, guest speakers and over 150 food and merchandise vendors.

Stay up to date, follow us on Instagram:
@northalsted and @pridefestchicago

Father’s Day Weekend in Northalsted

It’s Father’s Day Weekend in Northalsted, and the fun is just getting started! Treat your dad to Lark’s epic Bottomless Brunch, enjoy a fabulous PRIDE-themed drag show at the Kit Kat Lounge, break a sweat for a good cause at Crosstown Fitness’s Pride Charity Classes benefiting the Center on Halsted, or dance the night away with Dani Brasil at Hydrate! And that’s just the beginning—there’s so much more to explore and enjoy all weekend long! Don’t miss out on all the excitement!

Photo by Sidetrack

Pride Month in Northalsted is Off To a Busy Start

Celebrate Pride Month in Northalsted this Week: Check out what’s good in the neighborhood.

From brunch and drag shows to dinner specials and DJ sets, Pride Month in Northalsted is off to a busy start! Check out all that’s coming up and celebrate in style!

Photo by Sidetrack

Chicago Pride Fest 2024 Schedule

FULL SCHEDULE

Chicago Pride Fest, June 22-23. 2 Days, 3 Stages, 40+ Performers. Join us for a weekend celebrating LGBTQ+ Life & Community in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood.

NORTH STAGE

Natasha Bedingfield, JoJo Siwa, Sapphira Cristal

NORTH STAGE

Bob the Drag Queen, Amber Riley, Kaleena Zanders

NORTH STAGE

Max Rae, John Duff, Alex Lahey

TEEN PRIDE SPACE

Presented by Center on Halsted & Walgreens
at Broadway & Waveland

PROUD PET PARADE

$250 gift certificate for Veterinary Care, Doggy Daycare, or Grooming Services at Wrigleyville Veterinary Center

SOUTH STAGE

Saturday

SOUTH STAGE

Sunday

WAVELAND STAGE

Saturday

WAVELAND DRAG

Kinley Preston & Keri Traid

WAVELAND STAGE

Sunday

CHICAGO DRAG SHOWCASE

North Stage | Saturday | 1:00

CHICAGO DRAG SHOWCASE

North Stage | Saturday | 2:30

CHICAGO DRAG SHOWCASE

North Stage | Saturday | 6:45

CHICAGO DRAG SHOWCASE

North Stage | Sunday | 1:00

CHICAGO DRAG SHOWCASE

North Stage | Sunday | 2:45

CHICAGO DRAG SHOWCASE

North Stage | Sunday | 6:50

CHICAGO PRIDE FEST

Chicago Pride Fest® is a two-day street festival on June 22-23, 2024; the weekend before the Chicago Pride Parade (June 30, 2024).

The 23rd annual Chicago Pride Fest is a celebration of LGBTQ+ life, culture and community in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted neighborhood.

Pride Fest showcases live music on 3 stages, a Youth Pride Space for teens, best of Chicago drag performance, the Proud Pet Parade ft. Miss Foozie w/prizes, LGBTQ+ dance exhibitions, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, guest speakers and over 150 food and merchandise vendors.

Stay up to date, follow us on Instagram:
@northalsted and @pridefestchicago

Chicago Pride Fest 2024 Lineup Announced

Chicao Pride Fest 2024v Headliners Natasha Jojo Sapphira

Chicago Pride Fest 2024 Lineup Announced

June 22-23 | A celebration of LGBTQ+ life & community in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood

Natasha Bedingfield, JoJo Siwa, Sapphira Cristál, Bob the Drag Queen, Amber Riley and Empress Of are headlining this year’s Chicago Pride Fest®, taking place June 22nd and 23rd in the city’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted community.

(above) Natasha Bedingfield, Jojo Siwa, Sapphira Cristál

Other artists appearing on the North Stage include Kaleena Zanders, John Duff, Alex Lahey, Max Rae, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute, and Ultrabeat.

Chicago Pride Fest’s South Stage Saturday lineup showcases local favorites: Sixteen Candles, Too Much Molly Band, Bev Rage & The Drinks, The Divas, and more. Sunday programming by Peach Presents features Empress Of, Aya Ito, Nanoos, AZN INVZN ft. Chess Knight, CZ Boogie, Supes Base and others. Performance schedules below.

The all-day dance party at the Waveland Stage closes Saturday with the CircuitMOM Experience ft. Alex Lo. The legendary performer will bring an energetic Broadway meets circuit party vibe.

Additional attractions include the Youth Pride Space for teens between 12 and 18, the Proud Pet Parade with Miss Foozie, Firebrand country western line dancing and Servin’ Fysh dance company, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, guest speakers, and over 150 merchandise and food vendors.

The Youth Pride Space returns for both days of Chicago Pride Fest 12-7pm at Broadway and Waveland (inside the festival). It is a dedicated safe space for LGBTQ+ teens and teen allies (age 12-18). Programming includes speakers, entertainment, activities, DJ and dance area, food, beverages, and counseling resources.

In addition, Pride Fest is working with the Center on Halsted to add Senior programming to this year’s festival continuing to expand the festival to ensure all members of our community feel welcome and will be excited to join us to celebrate Pride together!

Chicago Pride Fest is an annual celebration LGBTQ+ life, culture and community (June 22-23, 2024) organized by the Northalsted Business Alliance chamber of commerce and takes place the weekend before the 53rd annual Chicago Pride Parade (June 30th, organized by PRIDEChicago.org)

Northalsted Vice-President and event Chairperson, Mark Liberson, is excited for Chicago Pride Fest’s 23rd anniversary, “Each June we come together to celebrate community and uplift each other in the struggle for equality and human rights. Despite decades of progress, the need for Pride has not lessened, as prejudice rooted legislation and lethal violence, especially against our transgender and BIPOC community members, are ongoing.”

A $15 suggested donation at entry helps pay Chicago Pride Fest performers, event workers, and funds community programs. Generous public donations paid for the creation and ongoing maintenance of the Chicago Pride Crosswalks: 14 rainbow paved neighborhood intersections make up the longest installation of its kind in the world, and the programming supported by Northalsted, including DEI training.

Schedule

Saturday June 22nd

North Stage

12:00pm – Laura B
1:00pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
2:00pm – JoJo Siwa
2:30pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
3:30pm – Servin’ Fysh Dance Co.
4:00pm – Kaleena Zanders
5:00pm – Ultrabeat
7:30pm – Sapphira Cristál
8:15pm – John Duff
9:15pm – Natasha Bedingfield

Waveland Stage

1:00pm – Ryan Willing
2:30pm – Saint
4:00pm – Miss Toto b2b Mary K
5:00pm – Doggpound
6:30pm – Ethan Cole
8:00pm – CircuitMOM Experience ft. Alex Lo

South Stage

1:00pm – Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus
2:00pm – Chicago Spirit Brigade
2:30pm – Bev Rage & The Drinks
3:30pm – TBD
4:00pm – The Divas
6:00pm – Too Much Molly Band
8:00pm – Sixteen Candles
Host BoyJ

Sunday June 23rd

North Stage

12:00pm – Proud Pet Parade with Miss Foozie
12:30pm – Firebrand
1:00pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
2:00pm – Bob the Drag Queen
2:30pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
4:00pm – Alex Lahey
5:15pm – Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute
6:50pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
8:00pm – Max Rae
9:00pm – Amber Riley

Waveland Stage

Hosted by Sasha Love & Platinum Carrington

1:00pm – DJ X-tasy
3:30pm – DJ Ca$h Era
5:00pm – VJ Bryan
6:30pm – Virago
8:00pm – Avi Sic

South Stage

12:30pm – Chicago Spirit Brigade
1:00pm – Proud Pet Parade w/Miss Foozie, Awards

Peach: ON AIR Welcome

1:30 -Bussy Queen Power Trip
1:50 – Breberries & Friends
3:00pm – Aya Ito
4:00pm – B.Blyss! Takeover: Sarah Suave, DJ Feen, Ayodele Drum & Dane
5:30pm – Cobra B
6:30pm – Empress Of
7:15pm – Nanoos
8:15pm – AZN INVZN ft. Chess Knight, CZ Boogie, Supes Base, Dim Sum, Drag

About the Northalsted Business Alliance
Founded in 1980, Northalsted Business Alliance represents more than 100 small businesses along Chicago’s Halsted Street corridor from Belmont to Irving Park/Broadway. The organization works to enhance economic vitality, foster a welcoming community, celebrate LGBTQ+ culture, and promote tourism through programs, services, and events including Chicago Pride Fest®, Northalsted Market Days®, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade, and more. For information visit northalsted.com.

Chicago Pride Fest
What: Chicago Pride Fest®, street festival est. 2001 with live entertainment on 3 stages, vending & food.
Where: Halsted St. from Addison to Grace St, Chicago IL
When: June 22-23, 2024: Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-10pm
Why: A celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride & community in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood
Who: Northalsted Business Alliance
Admission: suggested $15 donation, all ages
Website: pridefestchicago.com
Contact: info@northalsted.com (773) 883-0500

Chicago Pride Fest 2023 Lineup Announced

Heather Small (M People), Slayyyter, Meet Me @ The Altar & JORDY Headline Chicago Pride Fest 2023

Heather Small (M People), Slayyyter, Meet Me @ The Altar, JORDY, and Eureka O’Hara are among this year’s headliners for Chicago Pride Fest®, taking place June 17th and 18th in the city’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted community.

Upwards of 60,000 festival attendees gather each year to celebrate LGBTQ+ life, culture and community at Chicago Pride Fest.

Other artists on the Bud Light North Stage include Nick Osin, Shab, Ultra Naté, Ariana and the Rose, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute and Ultrabeat.

Chicago Pride Fest’s South Stage Saturday lineup showcases local favorites: Sixteen Candles, Too Much Molly, Hello Weekend, and more. Sunday programming by Peach Presents features BbyMutha, Cookiee Kawaii, The Vixen’s Black Girl Magic and others. Performance schedules below.

Additional attractions include the Waveland DJ Stage, a Youth Pride Space for teens, Proud Pet Parade with Miss Foozie, Firebrand country western dance and Servin’ Fysh dance company, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, 103.5 KISS-FM Rainbow Run, guest speakers, and over 150 merchandise and food vendors.

The Youth Pride Space debuted last year and returns for both days of Chicago Pride Fest 12-7pm at Broadway and Waveland (inside the festival). It is a dedicated safe space for LGBTQ+ teens and teen allies (age 12-18). Programming includes speakers, entertainment, activities, dance area, food and beverages, and counseling resources. Details forthcoming at northalsted.com/youth.

We come together in June to celebrate community and uplift each other in the struggle for equality and human rights…Outright attacks, especially on transgender and BIPOC members of our community, are ongoing.
Upwards of 60,000 festival attendees gather each year to celebrate LGBTQ+ life, culture and community at Chicago Pride Fest (June 17-18, 2023). The event is organized by the Northalsted Business Alliance chamber of commerce and takes place the weekend before the 53rd annual Chicago Pride Parade (June 25th, organized independently).

Northalsted Vice-President and lead event organizer, Mark Liberson, is excited for Chicago Pride Fest’s 22nd anniversary, “We come together in June to celebrate community and uplift each other in the struggle for equality and human rights. Despite decades of progress, the need for Pride has not lessened, as outright attacks, especially on transgender and BIPOC members of our community, are ongoing.”

A $15 suggested donation at entry helps pay Chicago Pride Fest performers, event workers, and funds community programs. Generous public donations paid for the creation and ongoing maintenance of the Chicago Pride Crosswalks: 14 rainbow paved neighborhood intersections make up the longest installation of its kind in the world, and the programming supported by Northalsted, including DEI training.

Chicago Pride Fest 2023 Schedule

Bud Light North Stage
Saturday, June 17, 2023

1:00pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
2:00pm – Eureka O’Hara
2:30pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
3:45pm – Servin’ Fysh Dance Co
4:00pm – Meet Me @ The Altar
5:00pm – Ultrabeat
6:45pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
8:00pm – Shab
8:30pm – Nick Osin
9:15pm – Heather Small (M People)

Sunday, June 18 2023

12:00pm – Proud Pet Parade with Miss Foozie
1:00pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
2:00pm – Slayyyter
3:00pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
4:00pm – Ultra Nate
5:15pm – Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute
6:50pm – Pride Fest Drag Show
8:00pm – Ariana and the Rose
8:45pm – JORDY

South Stage

Saturday, June 17, 2023

1:00pm – Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus
1:45pm – Chicago Spirit Brigade
2:30pm – Bev Rage & The Drinks
3:30pm – Firebrand
4:00pm – Hello Weekend
6:00pm – Too Much Molly Band
8:00pm – Sixteen Candles

Sunday, June 18 2023

12:30pm – Chicago Spirit Brigade
1:00pm – Proud Pet Parade w/Miss Foozie, Awards
1:30pm – Lakeside Pride
Peach Presents:
TBD – Bonita Appleblunt
TBD – BbyMutha
TBD – AZN INVZN ft. Chess Knight+Supes Base
TBD – Cookiee Kawaii
TBD – C*nty Meme
TBD – MochaMocha2.0 Presents: The Body Confidence Queens
TBD – The Vixen Presents: Black Girl Magic

Waveland Stage
Saturday, June 17, 2023

1:00pm – Barker
2:30pm – Miss Toto
4:00pm – Martin
5:30pm – Alexis Tucci
7:00pm – DJ Bryan
8:30pm – Ca$h Era
Host – Sasha Love

Sunday, June 18, 2023

11:00am – Radio Show
1:00pm – Janky
3:30pm – Chomper
5:00pm – Dom Brown
6:30pm – DJ Xtasy
8:00pm – DIOX

About the Northalsted Business Alliance
Founded in 1980, Northalsted Business Alliance represents more than 100 small businesses along Chicago’s Halsted Street corridor from Belmont to Irving Park/Broadway. The organization works to enhance economic vitality, foster a welcoming community, celebrate LGBTQ+ culture, and promote tourism through programs, services, and events including Chicago Pride Fest®, Northalsted Market Days®, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade, and more. For information visit northalsted.com.

Chicago Pride Fest Info:
What: Chicago Pride Fest®, street festival est. 2001 with live entertainment on 3 stages, vending & food.
Where: Halsted St. from Addison to Grace St, Chicago IL
When: June 17-18, 2023: Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-10pm
Why: A celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride & community in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood
Who: Northalsted Business Alliance
Admission: suggested $15 donation, all ages
Website: pridefestchicago.com
Contact: info@northalsted.com (773) 883-0500

Chicago Pride Fest 2022 Lineup Announced

ChicagoPrideFest2019 DelNakamura Northalsted GoPride 1 1

Alaska Thunderf*ck, Dorian Electra, CupcakKe, Eurovision winner Netta, The Aces, and “Queen of the Universe” winner Grag Queen are among this year’s headliners for Chicago Pride Fest® 2022 taking place June 18 and 19 in the city’s landmark LGBTQ+ Northalsted community.

Dates: Chicago Pride Fest is June 18-19, 2022

Alaska Thunderf*ck, Dorian Electra, Cupcakke & Netta Headline Chicago Pride Fest 2022

Chicago’s annual Pride festival at Halsted & Addison will also feature Inaya Day, Mila Jam, Madison Rose, Sixteen Candles, Boy Band Review, KIYOMI, Queen Explosion, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute, and more. Three stages of live music and performers, Sunday “Peach Presents” produced stage, 150+ vendors, and the Proud Pet Parade with Miss Foozie, round out the weekend’s attractions.

The street fest’s attendance is upwards of 60,000 visitors and is organized by Northalsted Business Alliance, chamber of commerce. Northalsted Vice-President and lead event organizer, Mark Liberson, is thrilled for the return of Chicago’s June Pride events. “I’m excited that our community will gather again this year in June as we have historically, with heightened appreciation of togetherness and resilience in celebration of the rights we have secured and motivated to ensure that we retain them into the future.”

Chicago Pride Fest (June 18-19) takes place the weekend before the Chicago Pride Parade (June 26, organized independently by Proud Chicago).

A $15 suggested donation at entry helps pay Chicago Pride Fest performers, event workers, and funds community programs. Generous public donations paid for the Chicago Pride Crosswalks: 14 rainbow paved neighborhood intersections make up the longest installation of its kind in the world.

Chicago Pride Fest

What: Chicago Pride Fest®, street festival est. 2001
Where: Halsted St. from Addison to Grace St, Chicago IL
When: June 18-19 ,2022: Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-10pm
Why: A celebration of community Pride in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood
Who: Northalsted Business Alliance & Chicago SSA#18
Admission: suggested $15 donation, all ages
Website: pridefestchicago.com
Contact: info@northalsted.com (773) 883-0500

About the Northalsted Business Alliance

Founded in 1980, Northalsted Business Alliance represents more than 100 businesses along Chicago’s Halsted Street corridor from Belmont to Irving Park/Broadway. The organization works to enhance economic vitality, foster a welcoming community, celebrate LGBTQ+ culture, and promote tourism through programs, services, and events including Chicago Pride Fest®, Northalsted Market Days®, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade, and more. For information visit northalsted.com.

Get Tested Free Before Chicago Pride Fest

Chicago Pride Fest | COVID-19 | Testing & Vaccinations | Music Festival | Walk In Appointments

Northalsted is partnering with Northshore Clinical Labs to offer free COVID testing and vaccinations in advance of, and at next weekend’s Chicago Pride Fest.

Walk-in 12-6pm at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. starting Wednesday 9/24 through Sunday 10/3.

Northshore Clinical Labs is offering the testing 100% free, no insurance required, to maximize the number of tests available. For more info contact 773-570-6510 or customerservice@northshoreclinical.com.
Free Rapid testing will also be available at the Pride Fest main gates during the festival with results in under 15 minutes.

The Northshore Clinical Labs vaccination booth inside the festival will be offering the Pfizer vaccine. Second doses, testing, and vaccinations are available to the public at the NSC laboratory at 4751 N. Kedzie.
COVID-19 protocols that were in place for Northalsted Market Days will be repeated: attendees of Chicago Pride Fest should be fully vaccinated or wear a mask. Many establishments on Northalsted require proof of vaccination for entry or a recent negative test.

For full event details see pridefestchicago.com or follow us on Facebook @ChicagoPrideFest, Instagram @pridefestchicago, or Twitter @northalsted.

Chicago Pride Fest Adds Debbie Gibson, Jamila Woods, Katie Kadan, Nina Sky and More to the Lineup

Chicago Pride Fest®, now spanning 3 days from October 1-3, will be packed with even more live music and entertainment! Newly added headliners include: Debbie Gibson, Jamila Woods, Katie Kadan (photo by Vin Reed), Nina Sky & Mila Jam. The festival recently announced adding Sunday October 3, following the cancellation of the Chicago Pride Parade.
Newly added headliners include: Debbie Gibson, Jamila Woods, Katie Kadan, Nina Sky & Mila Jam.

Previously announced artists also appearing are: Mýa, Shangela, VINCINT, Crystal Waters, Kristine W, Brooke Eden and St. Panther.

The entertainment also includes local favorites such as: Black Girl Magic with The Vixen and other artists produced for Sunday by Peach Presents, Dancing Queen: ABBA Salute, Sixteen Candles, Boy Band Review w/special guest Toxic feat. Garek, Rod Tuffcurls & the Bench Press, CATFIGHT, iPop, Bev Rage & the Drinks and MORE!

The Waveland Dance Stage is likewise loaded with Chicago’s proudest DJs and special guests. Full stage schedules and lineup details at pridefestchicago.com

COVID-19 protocols that were in place for Northalsted Market Days will be repeated: attendees of Chicago Pride Fest should be fully vaccinated or wear a mask. The majority of bar and restaurant establishments on Northalsted require proof of vaccination for entry (with a few requiring a recent negative test). Free COVID testing will be available at both the north and south gates prior to entry into the festival and both testing and vaccinations will be available from Northshore Clinical Labs prior to and at the festival. More information on testing and vaccination availability prior to the festival is available at northshoreclinical.com.

Northalsted Business Alliance Vice-President and festival organizer Mark Liberson is excited for the return of the festival.

“We’re grateful that vaccinations have enabled the return of events this year, allowing LGBTQ+ people and allies from all over the midwest and beyond a meaningful opportunity to celebrate life and community together.”

A $15 suggested donation for entry helps pay performers, festival workers, and funds community programs. Entry donations from previous festivals also helped to pay for the Chicago Pride Crosswalks: 14 rainbow paved intersections that make up the longest installation of its kind in the world.
About the Northalsted Business Alliance

Founded in 1980, Northalsted Business Alliance represents more than 100 businesses along Chicago’s Halsted Street corridor from Belmont to Irving Park/Broadway. The organization works to enhance economic vitality, foster a welcoming community, celebrate LGBTQ+ culture, and promote tourism through programs, services, and events including Chicago Pride Fest®, Northalsted Market Days®, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade, and more. For information visit northalsted.com.
Chicago Pride Fest

What: Chicago Pride Fest®, street festival est. 2001
Where: Halsted St. from Addison to Grace St, Chicago IL
When: Oct 1-3,2021: Fri 4pm-10pm, Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-10pm
Why: A celebration of pride in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood
Who: Northalsted Business Alliance & Chicago SSA#18
Admission: suggested $15 donation, all ages
Website: pridefestchicago.com
Contact: info@northalsted.com (773) 883-0500

Mýa, Shangela, VINCINT, and Crystal Waters to Headline 2021 Chicago Pride Fest

PrideFestChicago RickMajewski Northalsted 9550 1

Mýa, Shangela, VINCINT, Crystal Waters, Kristine W, Brooke Eden and St. Panther are among the headliners for Chicago Pride Fest® now taking place over 3 days, October 1-3, in Chicago’s LGBTQ+ landmark Northalsted/Lakeview district.

The lineup also includes Sixteen Candles, Boy Band Review w/special guest Toxic feat. Garek, Rod Tuffcurls, CATFIGHT and MORE! Schedule and full lineup details announced soon.

Previously announced for October 1st and 2nd, Chicago Pride Fest will now extend to Sunday October 3, taking the place of the now cancelled Chicago Pride Parade.

Echoing the COVID-19 protocols that were in place for Northalsted Market Days, attendees of Chicago Pride Fest will be encouraged to be fully vaccinated or be issued a mask to wear, indoor establishments in the festival area will be requiring proof of vaccination or recent negative test for entry, and free COVID testing / vaccinations will be offered before and at the festival.

“Northalsted celebrates Pride year-round. When the pandemic hit, it posed new challenges in doing so. Yet, we found ways to stay connected to each other and celebrated with Virtual Chicago Pride Fest. We’re more excited than ever that the vaccinations have enabled the return of outdoor events this year, that allow our community to celebrate together in person.”

A $15 suggested donation for entry helps pay performers, festival workers, and funds community programs. Generous public donations paid for the Chicago Pride Crosswalks: 14 rainbow paved intersections make up the longest installation of its kind in the world.

Chicago Pride Fest Returns with Leanne Rimes

From chicago.gopride.com

Chicago Pride Fest 2019 is just three months away, and today, organizers are kicking off the annual buzz leading up to the festivities by announcing the entertainment acts pegged to take the stage this year. Four stages deliver non-stop live performances featuring headliner and multi-platinum Grammy winner Leann Rimes, lighting up the stage with dance hits like “Can’t Fight the Moonlight”, “How Do I Live”, “Love is Love is Love” and more.

Pop diva Betty Who, Brazilian sensation Pabllo Vittar, Broadway vocalist Alex Newell, and dance music icons Ultra Naté and Inaya Day are also among the entertainment lineup, featuring a mix of national acts and local talent making for 2 full days of non-stop entertainment in the heart of Northalsted this summer.

Local favorites include Boy Band Review, Cat Fight, Rod Tuffcurls & the Bench Press, and 16 Candles.

In addition to the entertainment, the two-day street festival includes over 100 food and drink vendors and merchants, DJs and dancing, drag shows and more.

Another fun-filled highlight of Pride Fest is the annual Pet Pride Parade with Miss Foozie, which starts at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 23.

And all-new this year, the debut of a singing contest for the Out at Wrigley national anthem performance.

ChicagoPride.com: Pride Fest returns with big entertainment lineup

Mya, Kim English and La Bouche among the acts for Chicago Pride Fest, June 16 – 17

Chicago, IL – Chicago Pride Fest 2018 is less than two months away, and today, organizers are kicking off the annual buzz leading up to the festivities by announcing the entertainment acts pegged to take the stage this year.

International R&B idol Mya and iconic diva Belinda Carlisle are among the entertainment lineup, featuring a mix of national acts and local talent making for 2 full days of non-stop entertainment in the heart of Northalsted this June.

“No neighborhood puts on a better party than Northalsted,” said Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Chad Honeycutt. “But more importantly, Pride Fest fosters an atmosphere of celebration, appreciation and hope that is special to this event.”

Pride Fest kicks off on Saturday, June 16, with La Bouche, Chicago-native Carlito Olivero, Frenchie Davis, Kim English, and Jessica Sanchez, a finalist from season 11 of American Idol.

“I have a big gay following and have a lot of really close friends who are gay as well. I’m a big supporter of everyone,” Olivero told ChicagoPride.com before his 2014 Chicago Pride Fest appearance.

On Sunday, June 17, performers include LGBT ally and Go-Go’s founder Belinda Carlisle, Blake Lewis, Brian Justin Crumb, and Mya.

“I believe in equal rights for everyone and that means everyone. Even if I didn’t have a gay son I probably would be involved,” Carlisle told ChicagoPride.com.

Local favorites include Cat Fight, One Night Band, Abba Salute, Boy Band Review, and 16 Candles.

TimeOut Chicago Pride Month Events

Pride Fest Chicago® June 16-17, 2018 is one of many Chicago Pride Events in June. Even though June is no longer recognized by the White House as national Pride Month, the celebration will go on!

The Chicago Pride Parade is a Chicago tradition spanning more than four decades, but celebrations of gay pride have long since expanded beyond just the Northalsted parade. The big event on the last Sunday in June is now accompanied by Pride weekend festivities in alternative gayborhoods like Andersonville and Rogers Park. And LGBTQ-themed cultural offerings including theater, comedy shows and queer-friendly concerts dot the June calendar. We’ll keep adding to the list as dates firm up and new events are announced.

Crank up your favorite gay anthem and start planning out your Pride.