REGIONS: MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF PRIDE Having begun in 1972 on the third anniversary of the Stonewall riots, Twin Cities Pride now attracts approximately 400,000 people annually, making it the third-largest free Pride festival in the country. They are sure to be there with bells on in June 2022, when the event marks its 50th anniversary. Expect the usual fireworks and three stages of live music and entertainment, but the real reason to show up at this family-friendly event is to support the LGBTQ+ community (individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer or who do not identify strictly as male or female). You can don your gayest apparel and march in solidarity through the streets of Minneapolis or just kick back and enjoy the bands. The festival takes place at Loring Park , an urban oasis in downtown Minneapolis. Along the walkways surrounding the park’s large pond and formal gardens, you’ll find food courts, a beer garden, a children’s area and much more. If two days of festivities in the Twin Cities aren’t enough, note that Duluth , Mankato and a handful of other Minnesota cities have their own Pride celebrations. Rainbow Bridge, photo by @kkinsler Pride Festival in Rochester # ONLYIN MN | 57
Explore Minnesota Travel Guide 2022 Explore Minnesota Travel Guide: Page 57
