The Northalsted Business Alliance presented Chicago Pride Fest on June 18-19. The Boystown area was packed with crowds between Addison and Grace streets on Halsted Street. A $10 donation was suggested this year raising the price a bit to help support the entertainment and district.
American Idol season six winner Jordin Sparks headlined the first evening on the North Stage, and led a prayer dedicated to the victims of the Orlando tragedy. She sang songs like "No Air" and "One Step at a Time" during her set.
June 19's music entertainment included Danity Kane members now known as Dumblonde as well as new hitmaker Daya, who was recently interviewed by Windy City Times.
Miss Foozie hosted the annual pet parade, and drag was featured throughout the weekend to keep the crowds dancing and singing in between headliners performing.
The Red Bull Stage, located in the middle of the festival, hyped up party people with go-go boys, a DJ and dancing queens.
Many booths line both sides of Halsted Street bringing promotions and swag such as Steamworks Baths, Lime-A-Ritas, and the Illinois State Lottery among a variety of others.
Things also took a more serious turn, as a large amount of Pride Fest attendees filled the 7-Eleven parking lot overnight. One person was stabbed and fights continued in the streets for hours.
The June 19 festivities continued without incident and police officers were watchful throughout the day.
The Chicago Pride parade kicks off Sunday, June 26, at noon. Visit Northalsted.com for more Pride events.
Photos by Kat Fitzgerald