Iconic Northalsted celebration returns June 20-21 with headliners Durand Bernarr, G Flip, and more to champion unity and visibility.
The Northalsted Business Alliance has officially unveiled the highly anticipated entertainment lineup for the 25th annual Chicago Pride Fest, set to transform the city’s historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood on June 20 and 21, 2026.
Taking place on Halsted Street between Addison and Grace, the two-day street festival promises a vibrant weekend of advocacy and celebration, anchored by a diverse roster of musical acts and performers.
A Powerhouse Musical Lineup
The milestone 25th anniversary celebration will feature a headline stage packed with fan-favorite artists, including: Durand Bernarr, G Flip, Alex Chapman + Zoe Gitter present: GAG, Willa Ford, and MNEK.
Attendees can also look forward to performances by Caroline Kingsbury, Flyana Boss, Nini Coco, Miz Cracker, Anthony Rapp, and Wic Whitney. Additionally, the festival will feature “Black Girl Magic,” a special event hosted by The Vixen, featuring performances by Yvie Oddly and Heidi N Closet.
More Than a Festival
Beyond the three stages of live music, the festival will feature drag artists, dance exhibitions, guest speakers, and over 150 local art, merchandise, and service vendors. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. both days.
For festival organizers, this year’s event carries a weight of profound significance.
“Chicago Pride Fest is a celebration of who we are and a reminder of why visibility still matters,” said Mark Liberson, Festival Chairperson. “While we honor the progress our community has fought for over the years, Pride remains as vital as ever. Across the country, we see a rise in legislation rooted in prejudice and harmful rhetoric, particularly impacting transgender individuals and BIPOC members of our community. This moment calls for unity, visibility, and continued advocacy, and Northalsted is proud to be the home of that spirit.”
Community Impact
Chicago Pride Fest is organized by the Northalsted Business Alliance and serves as a major lead-up to the 55th annual Chicago Pride Parade, which is scheduled for Sunday, June 28, and organized by PRIDEChicago.
A $20 suggested donation is requested for festival entry. These funds are used to pay performers and festival staff, and to support essential local non-profits and community programs. Notably, proceeds help maintain the landmark Chicago Pride Crosswalks—a series of 14 rainbow-paved intersections that currently stand as the longest installation of its kind in the world.
Organizers noted that the complete daily schedule for the festival will be released in the coming weeks.
To learn more about Chicago Pride Fest, visit northalsted.com.
