Thousands celebrate at Chicago Pride Fest, a prelude to the Pride Parade
Thu. June 22, 2023 9:39 AM by GoPride.com News Staff
dj diox at chicago pride fest, 2023
photo credit // christina cortez
The 52nd annual Chicago Pride Parade kicks off at 12noon Sunday, June 25
Chicago Pride Fest returned for its 22nd year on Saturday and Sunday, June 17 and 18, the weekend leading up to Chicago’s annual Pride Parade.
The enthusiastic crowd was ready to celebrate the return of Pride.
"We couldn't have asked for more perfect weather to celebrate together,” said Kevin Barbeau, Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director. “Pride Fest was busy and energetic from start to finish, and we truly appreciate everyone that attended.”
Northalsted Business Alliance organizes Pride Fest and is also behind Northalsted Market Days and the Northalsted Halloween Parade.
Heather Small (M People), Slayyyter, Meet Me @ The Altar, Jordy, and Eureka O’Hara were among the headliners.
Other artists included Shab, Ultra Naté, Ariana and the Rose, and local favorites Hello Weekend, Sixteen Candles, and Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute.
Fresh pop star Nick Osin was also among the highlights at the two-day street festival. The Ukranian-born singer wowed the crowd with his stellar voice and an equally impressive body.
“I couldn’t see the end of the street from (my) on-stage point of view. So many people. So much love,” Osin told GoPride.com.
The crowd was estimated at 60,000. Many of those attending said they were looking forward to the parade on Sunday, June 25.
Barbeau agreed, “We can't wait to see the spirit, love and creativity on display at this Sunday's Pride Parade -- we'll see you on the street!"
Related: Karamo Brown, all local pro sports teams, NASCAR and more to participate in Chicago Pride Parade
Photos: Pride Month 2023 in Chicago
The enthusiastic crowd was ready to celebrate the return of Pride.
"We couldn't have asked for more perfect weather to celebrate together,” said Kevin Barbeau, Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director. “Pride Fest was busy and energetic from start to finish, and we truly appreciate everyone that attended.”
Northalsted Business Alliance organizes Pride Fest and is also behind Northalsted Market Days and the Northalsted Halloween Parade.
Heather Small (M People), Slayyyter, Meet Me @ The Altar, Jordy, and Eureka O’Hara were among the headliners.
Other artists included Shab, Ultra Naté, Ariana and the Rose, and local favorites Hello Weekend, Sixteen Candles, and Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute.
Fresh pop star Nick Osin was also among the highlights at the two-day street festival. The Ukranian-born singer wowed the crowd with his stellar voice and an equally impressive body.
“I couldn’t see the end of the street from (my) on-stage point of view. So many people. So much love,” Osin told GoPride.com.
The crowd was estimated at 60,000. Many of those attending said they were looking forward to the parade on Sunday, June 25.
Barbeau agreed, “We can't wait to see the spirit, love and creativity on display at this Sunday's Pride Parade -- we'll see you on the street!"
Related: Karamo Brown, all local pro sports teams, NASCAR and more to participate in Chicago Pride Parade
Photos: Pride Month 2023 in Chicago