June marks the start of Pride Month, and what better way to kick it off than with PrideFest! For almost 40 years, PrideFest has been a flagship event for the representation of the LGBTQ+ community in Milwaukee. It’s a welcoming, inclusive environment that looks to celebrate those within the community through 3-days of food, music, performances, local vendors, and fun!
Today, Milwaukee has one of the largest celebrations in the nation. We had the pleasure of speaking with Wes Shaver, President & CEO of PrideFest, to learn more about Milwaukee’s Pride festival, what attendees can expect this year, and the significance of an event like this in our city.
How many years has PrideFest been happening and how did it get started?
PrideFest began in 1988 as a grassroots effort to create a visible, welcoming space for Milwaukee’s LGBTQ+ community. In 2026, we’re celebrating our 30th season at Henry Maier Festival Park, where PrideFest has grown into one of the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ festivals while remaining rooted in community, advocacy, and celebration.
What has the growth been like over the years?
PrideFest has evolved from a modest community gathering into a three-day festival that welcomes tens of thousands of attendees annually. Along the way, we’ve expanded our entertainment, community programming, partnerships, and accessibility efforts while continuing to create meaningful opportunities for LGBTQ+ organizations, businesses, artists, and allies.
Important fact: PrideFest’s operations and vendor relationships represent non-LGBTQ+ people. PrideFest could not and would not happen without the direct involvement and support from local and statewide businesses and vendors.
What does it mean to have a PrideFest event in Milwaukee and why is it such an important festival to have?
PrideFest is a powerful reminder that Milwaukee is a city that welcomes and celebrates diversity. It creates visibility, fosters connection, supports local organizations and businesses, and provides a space where people can be their authentic selves while honoring the generations who helped pave the way for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today. PrideFest, along with the other 80+ citywide festivals, represents an ever-strengthening social fabric that continues to connect communities.
What’s all happening at PrideFest this year?
This year, we’re celebrating 30 seasons at Henry Maier Festival Park with more than 100 live performances across five stages, community programming, youth and wellness activations, over 100 vendors, food and beverage experiences, carnival rides, and the longest fireworks show in PrideFest history—a spectacular 30-minute display on Saturday night.
Throughout the weekend, we’ll also feature special activations that celebrate the music, moments, and memories that have shaped the last three decades of PrideFest. We’re thrilled to welcome legendary artists from the early 90’s through today’s popular voices and personalities across TV, film, and music.
Why should people check out PrideFest/what makes it special?
PrideFest offers something for everyone. Whether you’re coming for the music, community, food, entertainment, or simply to be part of an incredibly welcoming atmosphere, you’ll find an experience unlike any other on Milwaukee’s lakefront. It’s a celebration of authenticity, connection, and joy that brings together people from all walks of life. It’s truly Milwaukee’s “come as you are event.”
Anything else you’d like people to know about?
Thirty years ago, PrideFest found its home on Milwaukee’s lakefront. Since then, it has grown into one of the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ festivals and a cherished tradition that helps launch Wisconsin’s summer festival season.
Every ticket purchased, every vendor booth, every community partnership, and every volunteer contribution helps create something bigger than a festival; it supports local organizations, creates economic opportunity, and strengthens the sense of belonging that defines our community. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we’re proud to continue investing in Milwaukee and creating a one-of-a-kind experience that reflects the spirit, diversity, and pride of the people who make this city so special.