June is Pride Month, and communities across Illinois are celebrating with parades, festivals and live entertainment through the end of the month.
From massive gatherings in Chicago to local events in Rockford, Buffalo Grove and more, Illinois is gearing up for a month of loud, colorful, joyous events to celebrate its LGBTQ+ residents.
While some festivities will slide into July and August, here’s a breakdown of some major events happening in June.
Chicago Pride Fest
When: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21
Where: North Halsted Street between Addison and Grace Streets
Join thousands of residents from across Illinois in one of the largest Pride events in the country. Enjoy musical and drag performances by Durand Burnarr, G Flip, Nini Coco and more, along with a weekend of dancing, art, food and community in Chicago’s historic Northalsted neighborhood.
Rockford Area Pride
When: Noon Saturday, June 6
Where: State Street in downtown Rockford
The city of Rockford is hosting a Pride Parade and a Back Alley Party on June 6, combining floats and dancing with live entertainment, food and drag performances. The parade will begin at the intersection of East State Street and Charles Street, while the party kicks off at 500 Block East State Street.
Woodstock PrideFest
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 14
Where: Downtown Woodstock
Though Woodstock is hosting Pride festivities all weekend, the main events will be held on Sunday. Enjoy the parade in the morning, kicking off at Dean Street School, before heading over to the town’s daylong festival at the Historic Woodstock Square. There will be food, vendors, speakers and more.
Galena Pride Picnic
When: Noon-5 p.m. Saturday, June 13
Where: 625 Park Ave.
Enjoy Galena’s annual Pride Picnic in the picturesque Grant Park. The event will be chock-full of live music, food, vendors and activities in a family-friendly environment.
Buffalo Grove Pride Parade & Picnic
When: 11 a.m. Sunday, June 7
Where: Near Mike Rylko Community Park
Join thousands of spectators at Buffalo Grove’s family-friendly Pride Parade, which kicks off Buffalo Grove Road and Deerfield Parkway. Afterward, you can take advantage of the food, live entertainment, lawn games and more at the town’s Pride Picnic.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: June is Pride Month. Check out these celebrations around Illinois
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
