Naperville's Vibrant Pride Celebration Returns: Naper Pride Fest 2023

After a year's hiatus, Naper Pride Fest is set to return on September 14th, offering a daylong celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community at the historic Naper Settlement in Naperville. This third edition of the annual event promises a lineup of local performers, family-friendly activities, and an after-dark showcase that will cater to the 18 and older crowd.

Embracing Diversity and Fostering a Sense of Belonging

Reviving the Community's Passion for Naper Pride Fest

The eagerly anticipated return of Naper Pride Fest comes after a year's absence due to financial constraints. According to the event's co-chairs, Dawn DeSart and Ken Mejia-Beal, the community was "frankly mad" at the organizers for not hosting the event last year. This year, they are determined to make up for the missed opportunity and deliver a celebration that captures the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.

A Diverse and Inclusive Showcase

The 2023 Naper Pride Fest will feature a diverse lineup of local and regional performers, including the popular George Michael Reborn, Mostly Miley, and the return of the beloved Beyond the Blonde. The event's emphasis on local talent is a deliberate move to showcase the vibrant artistic community within the Naperville region.

Fostering Community Connections and Promoting Inclusivity

Beyond the entertainment, Naper Pride Fest aims to create a welcoming environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. The organizers have made a conscious effort to ensure the event is family-friendly, with daytime activities catering to all members of the community. The new "Pride after dark" addition, starting at 8:30 pm, will cater to the 18 and older crowd, offering a more adult-oriented experience with dance performances and a drag show.

Addressing Public Health Concerns with Free Mpox Vaccinations

In response to the recent surge in Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) cases, the Naper Pride Fest organizers have partnered with the DuPage County Health Department to offer free Mpox vaccines on-site. This proactive measure aims to provide access to the vaccine, which has been particularly difficult to obtain for the LGBTQ+ community. The event's commitment to public health underscores its role as a platform for addressing issues that disproportionately impact the community.

Fundraising for Community Health and Mental Health Services

Naper Pride Fest's primary goal extends beyond just entertainment and inclusivity; it serves as a fundraising platform for a local community health and mental health center. By hosting the event, the organizers hope to generate much-needed resources to support the vital services that cater to the health and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.

A Welcoming Celebration for the Entire Community

The Naper Pride Fest is not just a celebration for the LGBTQ+ community; it is an open invitation for the entire Naperville community to come together and experience the diversity and inclusivity that the event embodies. As Dawn DeSart emphasizes, "the fest is open to everybody" – from families with children to individuals of all backgrounds, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities and embrace the spirit of unity and acceptance.

Timing and Accessibility

The decision to host Naper Pride Fest in September, rather than during the traditional Pride Month of June, is a strategic one. The organizers recognize that the community is already inundated with events during the summer, and they believe September offers a more opportune time for the celebration. Additionally, the timing aligns with LGBTQ+ History Month in October, making the event even more meaningful and relevant.

Culinary Delights and Community Engagement

The Naper Pride Fest will feature a diverse array of food trucks, catering to a wide range of culinary preferences, from the Flyin' Hawaiian to Sausage Fest and Billy Bricks Pizza. Beyond the food, the event will also showcase local vendors, crafters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations, providing a platform for the community to engage with and support local initiatives.Overall, the 2023 Naper Pride Fest promises to be a vibrant celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community, offering a unique opportunity for the Naperville region to come together and embrace the beauty of LGBTQ+ culture and identity. With a diverse lineup of entertainment, a focus on public health, and a commitment to supporting local community services, the event aims to create a welcoming and empowering space for all.