Food trucks, a DJ playing music, games for kids and a couple of local celebrities are planned for Park Ridge’s first Pride Fest Thursday, June 20 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Prospect and Crescent Avenues.
Churches, community organizations, and community members “who are committed to celebrating the LGBTQia+ community and advocating for justice and rights for all in the community,” planned the event, said Pastor Carol Hill of Park Ridge Community Church.
The family-friendly event will feature face-painting, friendship bracelets, hair extensions, Pride merchandise and tables where children can do crafts and activities, Hill said. Other tables will provide information about organizations providing support and resources for LGBTQia+ children, adults, and teens.
DJ Karl Flener will provide music, and kids and adults will be able to take advantage of an inflatable bungee run and obstacle course (two at a time, matched with appropriate age partner).
Soul & Smoke food truck from Evanston, Triple Scoop ice cream, and Nicky C’s hot dogs and walking nachos will be available for purchase, and the church will provide free water and lemonade.
Mayor Marty Maloney is scheduled to issue a Pride proclamation, and Greg Harris, former speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, will say a few words about the progress made in LGBTQia+ rights.
Churches involved in planning the event include Park Ridge Community, St. Mary’s Episcopal, St. Luke’s Lutheran, First United Methodist, Park Ridge Presbyterian, Redeemer Lutheran, and Messiah Lutheran Church. Community groups Action Ridge and Connections Group also helped, with Hill crediting Shelley O’Brien for spearheading the effort.