CHESTERTOWN — A Pride Festival is returning to Chestertown, the first local celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, community and allyship since the inaugural event in 2019.
The festival’s relaunch is set for Friday and Saturday, May 1-2 in Wilmer Park.
Kent County Chapter of the Delmarva Pride Center is organizing the event, said to be a milestone that “continues a growing tradition of inclusion and visibility across Maryland’s Eastern Shore.”
Festivities kick off on Friday, May 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. with a dance party, followed by the main festival on Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. that will include live entertainment and performances; local vendors and artisans; community organizations and resource tables; family-friendly activities; and food and beverages.
In advance of the festival, the organizing committee is hosting a sold-out fundraiser at Zelda’s Speakeasy on Saturday, April 25. There will be live entertainment by Kiara Vos, silent auction and hors d’oeuvres provided by Occasions Catering.
Proceeds will help fund festival programming, entertainment and accessibility efforts to ensure the celebration remains free and welcoming to all, according to a member of the organizing committee.
The Chestertown Pride Festival is made possible through the support of local businesses and organizations, including Garfield Center for the Arts, Kent Cultural Alliance, MassoniArt, The Chestertown Spy, Zelda’s Speakeasy, Trax Advantage Driving Academy, Cross Street Realtors, The Bookplate and Eastern Shore Tents and Events.
“Their support reflects a strong and growing commitment across the region to inclusivity, community engagement and the celebration of diversity,” said Francoise Sullivan, chair of the Kent County Chapter of the Delmarva Pride Center.
Sullivan also thanked the Town of Chestertown, Chief Ron Dixon and the Chestertown Police Department, and the Chestertown Recreation Commission for their support.
Kent County Chapter of the Delmarva Pride Center, established in February 2025, is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting and advocating for LGBTQIA+ individuals across the region. The chapter has focused on building community, expanding outreach, and creating safe, affirming spaces in rural communities.
Sullivan said the Chestertown Pride Festival is more than a celebration. It’s also “a reflection of a shared commitment to equality, belonging and community connection.”
For more information, visit https://chestertownpride.com/.
