Rockford Area Pride Parade Announces Largest Lineup in Event History

Rockford, IL — The Rockford Area Pride Parade Committee is proud to announce the official lineup for the 2026 Rockford Area Pride Parade, taking place on Saturday, June 6, beginning at noon in downtown Rockford.

This year’s parade will feature approximately 57 entries, making it the largest Pride Parade in the event’s history and reflecting the continued growth of LGBTQ+ visibility, support, and celebration throughout the Rockford region.

The parade will showcase a vibrant mix of community organizations, local businesses, advocacy groups, churches, performers, schools, nonprofits, and civic leaders coming together in support of inclusion, equality, and Pride.

“3 years ago, this committee set out to show that LGBTQIA+ people are celebrated and welcome in our city,” said Andrew Mertzenich, Chair of the Rockford Area Pride Parade committee. “Now we are welcoming the largest parade yet, which just shows our city is growing in more ways than we ever thought possible.”

Drag performer, Auntie Heroine noted, “During a time in our country where we are facing so much opposition with DEI rollback and executive orders targeting LGBTQIA+ people, it’s so validating to see our local community coming out in greater numbers than ever to support us. It gives me hope for the future, and I’m proud of Rockford.”

The 2026 parade will feature honorary grand marshals Norm Knott (“Celebrate”), Shelton Kay (“Remember”), and Lien Vu (“Unite”), whose themes reflect the spirit and mission of this year’s celebration.

Community members are encouraged to attend, celebrate, and support the many organizations helping create a more inclusive Rockford region.

For the parade route and more information, visit www.rockfordareapride.org.

2026 Parade Lineup.docx.pdf

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