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The following was submitted by the Network for Social Justice:
On Tuesday, June 10, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Winchester will host its 5th Annual PRIDEFest on the Town Common, bringing together students, families, and community members for an afternoon of celebration, visibility, and solidarity in support of the LGBTQ+ community.
The rain date is Thursday, June 12.
This family-friendly event invites the public for an afternoon of music, art, education, resource-sharing, and community connections.
Originally envisioned by a Winchester middle school student, PRIDEfest participating organizations include student groups, the Queer Straight Alliance (QSA) from McCall Middle School, Spectrum from Winchester High School, and youth groups from the Winchester Unitarian Society.
Much of this year’s organizing has been handled by WHS Senior Evelyn LaMont as an intern with the Network for Social Justice, which has supported the event each year.
Many community groups join annually in PRIDEfest, including the Winchester Public Library, Wright-Locke Farm, and Winchester Farmer’s Market.
Others making return appearances at PRIDEfest 2025 will be drag performer Maxine Harrison as emcee and DJ, and the Kona Ice truck! Both were favorites for people of all ages in 2024.
In addition to performing, Maxine Harrison will again team up with Tony Leone of NAGLY, the North Shore Alliance of GLBTQ youth, to lead a conversation with middle and high school students on the Town Common after the event.
PRIDEfest is made possible with generous support from sponsors including Winchester Community Music School, Winchester Cooperative Bank, Modern Legacy Law Group based in Melrose, and faith organizations, Crawford Memorial Church and the First Congregational Church.
The Network is also appreciative of support from town entities, including the Select Board, the Department of Public Works, and Winchester Recreation, making the event possible and accessible with the use of Access Trax mats purchased last year through an ARPA grant.
All are welcome to join in affirming and celebrating Winchester’s LGBTQ+ community at this event. It’s not too late to participate or sponsor!
More information can be found here and on the Network for Social Justice website.
