Chicago Pride Fest returns Sunday with Daya and Dumblonde

Sun. June 19, 2016 8:29 AM by GoPride.com News Staff

photo credit // dave ouano

Chicago Pride Fest runs through 10 p.m. Sunday, June 19

Chicago, IL - Chicago's Pride Fest kicked off Saturday, June 18, with tightened security measures in the wake of the Orlando tragedy just one week ago.

Increased security was evident with an extra police presence and bag checks at the entrances, but it didn't seem to dampen the spirt of those attending.

"This year it's even more important for us to get out and wave our flags," said Orin Wojciechowski, 39, of the Uptown neighborhood. 

Chicago Pride Fest Photos

The two-day festival returns Sunday, June 19 at 11 a.m. with heavy hitters including Dumblonde and Daya.

Former Danity Kane members Aubrey O'Day and Shannon Bex take the North Stage as Dumblonde at 9:15 p.m. Their indie pop debut has strong dance and alternative influences reminiscent of acts like The Ting Tings and La Roux. 

Daya, best known for her leading single "Hide Away", is also part of the Sunday entertainment line-up. She performs at 4 p.m. from the South Stage at North Halsted and Addison.

Local favorites, including Wedding Banned and Rod Tuffcurls, will perform the North Stage at North Halsted and Grace. Other performers slated for Sunday include Boy Band Review, Emii, Fabio Campos, Goldhouse, Luciana and My Gold Mask.

"All of our events are known for their exceptional entertainment value and this year's Pride Fest is no exception," Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Christopher Barrett Politan told ChicagoPride.com. "With a mix of up and comers and festival favorites, there's something for everyone to enjoy."

In addition to the non-stop entertainment, the festival includes 60 vendors offering arts, crafts and unique merchandise tailored to the gay community. Plus Miss Foozie will host the popular Pet Pride Parade starting at 12:30 p.m. from the North Stage.

"There are so many reason to cherish our pets and their positive impact," said Miss Foozie. "This is just one opportunity to celebrate the difference they've made in our lives." 

The festival is coupled with other major LGBT celebrations in June, like the 35th annual Proud to Run 5K/10K run/walk and the high-concept themed dance party Neverland "The Lost Boys" that are both slated for June 25.

Related: Three-party Neverland Pride to coincide with Chicago Pride

The 14th annual Chicago Pride Fest, which is organized by the Northalsted Business Alliance, runs through 10 p.m. Sunday, June 19 on North Halsted Street between Addison and Grace in Boystown. A $10 donation is recommended.

The 47th annual Chicago Pride Parade, which now brings more than a million visitors to the Uptown and Lakeview neighborhoods, is next Sunday, June 26 at noon.

Related: 'Chicago Fire' star Monica Raymund to lead Chicago Pride Parade

2016 Chicago Pride Calendar
 

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