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The 2024 Saint Joe Pridefest at Coleman Hawkins Park on September 6th and 7th was a fantastic celebration of diversity and inclusion, drawing a large crowd from both the local community and the region. Organized by the dedicated St. Joe Pride Board, this year's festival marked its 11th annual event, showcasing the spirit and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community in Saint Joseph, MO.
The festival featured a lively parade at 5 P.M. on Saturday, with the fabulous Vivian Versace and our inspiring Grand Marshal, Bianca Bliss, leading the way. Enthusiastic participants and supportive spectators lined the streets, creating an electric atmosphere filled with music, cheers, and a palpable sense of unity. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, including live performances from local artists like Black Bleeds Through and DJ Diehard.
The drag performances were a highlight of the festival, with Bianca Bliss, Vivian Versace, and L'Oreal KC dazzling the crowd with their charisma, beauty, and talent. They were joined by an incredible lineup of performers, including Heather Fellas, KiYanna Uchawi, RiRi XL, Karma S. Stanwyck, Zanny Ex Uchawi, Freddy Mac Uchawi, Angel Heart Veri'Da Pressed, Eli Rudell, Reina Rose, Clint Toris Bliss, and Baron Wormwood, each bringing their own flair to the stage.
Families and friends gathered to enjoy the festivities, with food trucks and stalls offering a diverse range of culinary delights. The event was family-friendly, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, could participate and feel welcome, including a 15-foot bounce house slide and face painting. Special acts like Pyro Flow and Something Else Cabaret captivated the audience with their performances.
A big shout-out to Mokaska Coffee Company for hosting Northwest Health Services' free HIV testing, and to Trail Theatre for the Wednesday night showing of To Wong Fu, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar. Huge thanks to all the volunteers who helped us over the weekend—we couldn't do this without you!
We also want to extend our gratitude to some of the vendors and organizations that made this event even more special: St. Joseph Public Library, PFLAG St. Joe, Miss M's Crochet, Soothing Crystal Flames, The Creepy Trinket Box, And Justice For All, A & J Creations, Synchrony Financial, Technicolor Tweedles, Nacho Momma's Designs, Doug Knetzer Realtor Compass KC, Madly Unique, Frank & Boris Pet Accessories, DragonClaw ChainMaille, St. Joe Therapist LLC, GalaxCreationStudios, Eskildsen Creative Works, LLC, FosterAdopt Connect, The Big Gay Collective LLC, Mystic Craftz, First Lutheran Church, Embark Counseling Services, Family Guidance Center, Northwest Health Services, Free Mom Hugs, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Lucky Thai Food Truck, and T-Mobile.
A special shout-out to DJ Diehard, Jon McClain, for keeping the music going throughout the festival, ensuring the energy stayed high, and the dance floor was always packed! We also want to acknowledge the generosity of Doug Knetzer, whose support helped make this event possible.
Overall, the 2024 Saint Joe Pridefest was a resounding success, reinforcing the message of pride and solidarity. It served as a reminder of the progress made, and the work still needed to achieve full equality for all.
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