Metro East Pride Festival 2026
Metro East Pride Fest has grown into one of the largest LGBTQIA+ celebrations in Southern Illinois, drawing thousands of attendees each year for a full day of entertainment, community engagement, education, and celebration. The festival will feature:
• Live entertainment throughout the day
• Local and regional performers
• Pride royalty and drag entertainment
• Community organizations and nonprofit resources
• Food and beverage vendors
• Retail and artisan vendors
• Family-friendly activities
• Special contests and community events
• Opportunities to connect with businesses and organizations that support diversity and inclusion
More than 100 vendor spaces are available, providing opportunities for businesses, artists, nonprofits, and community organizations to engage with attendees and showcase their products, services, and missions.
“Metro East Pride Fest is more than just a festival—it is a celebration of community, visibility, acceptance, and belonging,” said Kristen Broyles, President of Metro East Pride. “In a time when many members of our community continue to face challenges, it is important that we come together to celebrate who we are, support one another, and demonstrate that love truly is louder than hate.”
Registration for vendors, sponsors, and volunteers is currently open. Community members interested in supporting the event are encouraged to get involved through sponsorships, volunteering, or attending the festival.
Metro East Pride of Southwestern Illinois is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing unity, visibility, and wellness among people of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities through educational, cultural, and community programs throughout the Metro East region.
For additional information, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer registration, or vendor applications, visit the Metro East Pride website or follow Metro East Pride on social media.
Event Information
Metro East Pride Fest 2026
Saturday, October 3, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Downtown Belleville Public Square & East Main Street
Belleville, Illinois
Media Contact:
Kristen Broyles
President, Metro East Pride of Southwestern Illinois
president.mepsi@gmail.com
www.metroeastpride.org
