LANCASTER, Pa. — On Saturday, thousands came together to celebrate Pride Month in Lancaster.
The Lancaster County Convention Center was the home to the 16th Annual Pride Festival. This year's event was also the first time the festival expanded onto Vine Street as part of the festival's theme, "Our Streets Are Open to All."
"A lot of people felt that we weren't as visible inside. So we tried to find a fun and safe way to bring it back to the streets," said Tiffany Shirley, the president of Lancaster Pride. “Being outside on the street shows that everybody is valid, everybody is visible and everybody is loved.”
Lancaster Pride organizers said the decision to expand the festival grounds reflects its growth over the years. Former organizer Melody Keim said she is proud to watch the community continue to support the festival.
“As an LGBTQI+ community, we really need these spaces where we can be out, loud and proud together," said Keim.
The event featured more than 300 vendors and a variety of music and drag performances. The festival was headlined by a special meet-and-greet from Aquaria, a Central Pennsylvania native and Season 10 winner of "RuPaul's Drag Race."
“It was such an amazing experience because she is such an icon for everything that should be about inclusiveness," said festival attendee Dee Singley.
By bringing the Lancaster community together, organizers hope to celebrate and provide a safe space for everyone for many more years to come.
“Seeing everyone here being so welcoming and caring towards one another is such a beautiful thing," said attendee Keara Cosgrave.