Irvington will celebrate the depth and breadth of its inclusive and diverse community during the Third Annual Irvington Pride Festival on Saturday, June 29 starting at 11 a.m. and running throughout the day and into the evening with activities, shopping, and shows.
Last year, Irvington Pride was wildly popular and brought many to the historic neighborhood from all over the area. Organizers this year hope to attract a bigger crowd to come see the growth of the businesses and nonprofits that call Irvington home. Sponsored by the Irvington Business Association and the Irvington Community Council, Pride Festival has become one of the key events in the neighborhood’s yearly calendar.
The day kicks off at 11 a.m. with the opening of the Vendor Village at 11 a.m. at the Irvington Lodge, 5515 E. Washington. There will be a Solidarity Walk at 11:30 a.m. (gather in the Strange Bird parking lot to start) from Audubon to Ritter along Bonna, where everyone is welcome. After the parade, be sure to check out the vendor spaces on Bonna, as well as the great businesses like Irvington Vinyl and Books, the Snug Irish pub, Salon Citrine, Magpie Gallery, Stage Door, Great Day Tattoo, and more.
Spend the afternoon checking out the family zone at Irvington Presbyterian Church (which also offers free bottled water and restroom facilities) at 55 Johnson Ave. Around the corner, you’ll discover Hazeables, George Thomas Florist, Bareknuckles Barber Shop, Liftoff Creamery, and the great shops like Hampton & Co., Irvington Wellness, Black Sheep, Trap Door Tattoos, Market Vintage, Monsterz Inc., Smash’d Burger, Chicago Beef & Dog Co. Food Truck, and Bazaar Oh! Vintage Shop — all with specials, activities, live music, DJs, drag show, and other special performances throughout the day.
Also in the Irvington Lodge, check out the third floor from 5-9 p.m. for open pinball games with vintage and classic games for only $10 that will be donated to Riley Hospital. On the second floor from 8-10 p.m. will be a drag show and refreshments from the Snug (free admission). The Lodge also hosts the after-party from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Monsterz Inc. downstairs.
Parking may be difficult during the festival, so you might want to ride-share. Most shops and events are within walking distance of each other.
Everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy the day in Irvington.
