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Our 2026 theme is "Love in Action." It honors the everyday acts of courage, solidarity, mutual aid, and community care that define the collective truth of Black and Brown queer folks on the South Side.

Community Care: Attendees are highly encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item to the festival entrance to support the #LoveNourishes community food drive!

This is a fully inclusive, family-friendly event welcoming all ages. Please note that an adult (18+) must accompany anyone under the age of 18.

Admission is free! However, because space is limited and demand is high, all attendees must RSVP online in advance to secure a entry wristband: https://www.pridesouthside.org/event-list

The DuSable Museum grounds are ADA accessible. Pride South Side is committed to making the festival welcoming for everyone. If you require specific accommodations for special needs, please email the organizing team at [email protected] ahead of the event date.

Because the festival takes place on a holiday weekend, traffic around Washington Park will be heavy and parking will be highly competitive. We strongly encourage taking public transit, rideshares, or biking to ensure a smooth, stress-free arrival.

What items are prohibited?

Tents and Umbrellas

Any outside food or beverage

OPENED water bottles.

Metal, glass, or aluminum containers of any kind

Animals (except service animals)

Weapons

Smoke devices, flares, or fireworks of any kind

Illegal substances or smoking of any kind

Projectiles

Professional cameras and equipment (unless you're a member of the media)

Hard-sided coolers or containers of any size

No bags larger than 14″ by 14″ by 6

No luggage, large purses, or backpacks

Poles of any kind (metal, plastic, or wooden)

Frisbees

Inflated balls of any kind

Artificial noisemakers, including whistles or air horns of any kind

Laser pointers

Streamers and confetti

Drones

Aerosol cans

What items are permitted?

Lawn Chairs and Blankets

SEALED OR EMPTY Water Bottles only. Water bottles must be plastic.

Bags no larger than 14″ by 14″ by 6″ will be allowed. Bags will be searched.

What form of payment will the festival accept?

The festival marketplace and bars accept cash, debit, and credit cards. Please note that there are no ATMs on-site, so plan accordingly if you prefer using cash with local vendors.

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