In addition to performers, many people in the LGBTQ community dress in drag and walk on stilts at the Pride Festival. People can take pictures with them and are urged to leave a tip. (Stephanie Cornwell/WUFT News)
Members of the LGBTQ community dressed in rainbow flags, brought their friends and family, and made new friends Saturday at Bo Diddley Plaza in downtown Gainesville. This year’s motto of the Pride Festival was “pride now more than ever,” according to Terry Fleming, Co-President of the Pride Community Center of North Central Florida. The festival also included a children’s area titled “Kids Pride.” Children could get their face painted, make crafts with friends, and play in a foam-like jungle gym. Many attendees brought their dogs, wallets and blankets to relax on the grass and have fun. About 100 vendors sold crafts and jewelry, and served food. Local talent sang from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
People sit in the Bo Diddley Plaza as performers sing at the Gainesville Pride festival. Local vendors sold food, jewelry and clothing from noon to 9 p.m. (Stephanie Cornwell/WUFT News)
Zipporah Adelandeyo sits and watches her child play in the jungle gym at the Pride Parade. (Stephanie Cornwell/WUFT News)
The Peaceful Pathways Domestic Abuse Network display shirts made by children that they have helped at the Pride Festival. People could come learn about the organization. (Stephanie Cornwell/WUFT News)
Local talents rotate turns singing at the Pride Festival to a plaza full of people dancing, eating and enjoying the music. (Stephanie Cornwell/WUFT News)
Bridget Ryan sits at the Pride Parade in support of her friend, watching local singers perform. (Stephanie Cornwell/WUFT News)
Jabbowockeez, the 4-year-old dog eagerly approaches people at the Pride Festival, especially if they have food. (Stephanie Cornwell/WUFT News)