The Grand Rapids Pride Center, a local nonprofit organization that empowers the West Michigan LGBTQ community through supportive services and awareness, will be hosting the 31st Annual Grand Rapids Pride Festival on Saturday, June 15, from noon to 10 p.m. at Calder Plaza, 300 Monroe Ave.
The festival, which is one of the largest one-day events in Grand Rapids, will bring together LGBTQ community members, businesses, organizations, and allies to celebrate diversity and inclusion. The theme of this year's event is "Proud To Be," which encourages attendees to celebrate who they are "Proud to Be!"
Festival attendees will enjoy 100+ vendors, 10 food trucks (including B.D.'s BBQ, Patty Matters, Pressed in Time and Underground Cookie Co.) and beverage options from Bell's, who is serving as the Official Beer Sponsor for the festival. There will also be a Community Stage presented by the Drunken Retort from noon to 5 p.m. that will feature local artists performing spoken word, slam poetry, music and more.
"The Pride Festival is something that people in Grand Rapids look forward to every summer and we are so excited for this year's event," said Thomas Pierce, Executive Director of the Grand Rapids Pride Center. "Between the amazing musical performers, 100+ vendors, and family friendly activities there will truly be something for everyone. This year's festival will be a wonderful celebration of diversity and inclusion."
The main attraction for this year's Pride Festival will be the main stage musical performances from M√Ωa, the Grammy Award Winning artist who collaborated on the chart-topper "Lady Marmalade," MAX, iHeart 2019 'Best New Pop Artist' nominee known for his hit single "Lights Down Low" and Sizzy Rocket, singer and songwriter best known for her 2016 debut album "Thrills." Performances will begin at 6 p.m. on the Main Stage.
Meijer will be presenting the "Meijer Family Fun Zone" in partnership with IBM, Capgemini, Kellogg and other community partners: Grand Rapids Children's Museum, Children's Advocacy Center and UICA. Fun Zone guests can also enjoy free entry to UICA, member pricing on UICA films, and $2 off admission to the Grand Rapids Children's Museum.
Tickets for the festival are $8 for General Admission and $50 for VIP. The VIP tickets provide festival-goers with access to the VIP lounge, catered food, a complimentary drink and front-stage, up-close access to all entertainment. Children 12 years old and younger can enter the festival for free. Tickets can be purchased online at grpride.org/festival or the day of at the event. All proceeds from the event will support the Grand Rapids Pride Center.
The Grand Rapids Pride Center will be hosting multiple events throughout Pride Month. For more information on upcoming events, visit grpride.org.
Grand Rapids Pride Center Hosting 31st Annual Grand Rapids Pride Festival
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