Pride in the Park returns in June

Pride in the Park is set to become one of the first live concert events returning to Chicago this summer. The two-day outdoor festival, that made its debut in 2019 and was canceled in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, returns to Grant Park on June 26 and 27 with a limited capacity.

"It's been more than a year, but this summer, live music and meaningful, safe ways to connect with our chosen friends and family is coming back. We are very pleased to meet state guidelines and working with the City of Chicago and Chicago Park District to make this event happen” said Dusty Carpenter, President and lead organizer of Pride in the Park Chicago.

Organizers will be implementing a health and safety plan that follows the “Restore Illinois Plan” – a metrics-based, vaccination-informed framework that is helping to advance the state towards the completely open Phase 5.

“The Chicago Park District and Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events deserve a shout out for their collaboration,” Carpenter said. “The health and safety of our attendees, artists, activists, guest speakers, vendors, and staff is our highest priority; it was one team working out a comprehensive plan".

Pride in the Park is partnering with Howard Brown Health and other Chicago testing providers to give attendees as many options as possible. If not fully vaccinated, organizers suggest attendees get tested Thursday or Friday prior to the event at one of the COVID PCR testing centers around the city.

In addition to the main stage, full entertainment schedule is forthcoming, CircuitMOM Productions will command their own on-site performances, including drag kings and queens and the world-famous DJs and that signature electric house music that only CircuitMOM can deliver. 

As in 2019, Pride in the Park has named Center on Halsted as its official charity partner and will donate a portion of ticket sales and providing in-kind tickets to ensure LGBTQ and underprivileged youth may participate and celebrate their pride openly.

Tickets go on sale Friday, April 30 at noon and will range from $70 - $200. Updates and ticket sales are available at PrideParkChi.com. 

Related: Chicago Pride Parade organizers apply for 2021 permit, remain 'cautiously optimistic'