The CU Pride Fest returns for its 16th year, turning Urbana into a week-long celebration of identity, art, and community. Organized by Uniting Pride, the festival runs from Sunday through Saturday, offering a blend of free workshops, inter-generational storytelling, outdoor excursions, and a culminating parade and drag extravaganza. Whether you are a longtime supporter of the LGBTQ+ community or a curious newcomer, the schedule provides multiple entry points to learn, connect, and celebrate.
Creative workshops and educational sessions
Wednesday – The Art of Joy
At the historic Royer House, participants will spend two hours (6-8 p.m.) crafting a personal illustration that captures a source of happiness. The activity is limited to 40 people, free of charge, and requires no prior artistic skill; all materials are supplied. Once completed, each piece will be merged into a larger collaborative mural, symbolizing the collective spirit of the festival.
Thursday – Living History with Queer Elders
The Urbana Free Library hosts its fourth “Living History” series from 6-8 p.m. Attendees circulate among stations where seasoned queer elders share personal narratives and answer questions. This oral-history format aims to bridge generational gaps, preserving the lived experiences of older community members for younger audiences.
Friday – Academic reflections and youth fun
At noon, the Library Friends Webinar, streamed on Zoom, commemorates more than five decades of LGBTQ+ milestones in Illinois. Speakers include university professor Siobhan B. Somerville and archivist Ellen D. Swain, who guide listeners through archival footage, policy shifts, and cultural moments. Registration is required. Later, from 3:30-6 p.m., the Phillips Recreation Center opens its doors for a free Youth & Family Party featuring a teen-focused “Hangout Zone,” crafts, snacks, and inclusive games.
Family-friendly outings and outdoor exploration
Saturday morning begins with a guided nature hike in Busey Woods, organized by the Urbana Park District. Starting at 9:30 a.m., volunteers lead participants through local flora and fauna, drawing parallels between natural diversity and the spectrum of human identities. No sign-up is needed, making it an accessible outdoor experience for all ages.
Following the hike, the main festivities shift downtown. The parade, slated for 1 p.m., will roll along Illinois Street, turn onto Race Street, head north briefly, then proceed east on Elm Street, concluding at the junction of Water and Walnut. Champaign native Hope Elam-Huett, a former professional basketball player turned community advocate, will serve as grand marshal, highlighting her work with the youth-focused Camp Hope program.
Parade, fair, and the drag extravaganza
The downtown fair runs parallel to the parade from 1-5 p.m., showcasing local artisans, food trucks, games, and performances. Vendors and artists from the region will have booths, creating a vibrant marketplace that mirrors the festival’s inclusive ethos.
The evening’s climax arrives at Champaign’s City Center when the drag show doors open at 9 p.m. The “Drag Extravaganza” features RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Jorgeous alongside Urbana talents Spank Knightly, Ceduxion Carrington, DaéShaun Carrington, and Herra Winn. General admission costs $25, with tickets sold online. The show promises high-energy runway moments, costume showcases, and a celebratory space for self-expression.
For additional details, registration links, or media inquiries, organizers can be reached via the provided email addresses.
