Chicago Pride hits different in the summer. The city doesn’t just throw one event—it puts on a series of celebrations that span neighborhoods, cultures, and styles. Each one has its own energy, but they all show up for the same reason: to celebrate queer lives – loudly and proudly.
Back Lot Bash
Back Lot Bash is set for June 28–29, 2025, in Andersonville. The event takes place in the Cheetah Gym parking lot at 5248 N Clark. It’s a Pride weekend tradition that centers women and pulls in a crowd of over 6,000 each year.
It started in 2004 as a smaller gathering and has grown into a two-day outdoor festival. It’s known for its strong lineup, inclusive vibe, and focus on queer women. The atmosphere is lively but still easy to enjoy. Saturday opens at 3 p.m. and includes performances from The Fly Honeys, PINK Squeeze, DJ Kid Riot, Mimi Zuko, and Too Much Molly. Travis Fiero is hosting the day.
Sunday also starts at 3 p.m. JoJo Siwa headlines, which is a big draw. Rose Garcia, DJ Sandra Suave, The DIVAS Band, Ariana DJ, and DJ BLU 9 are also on the lineup. There’s a family-friendly portion on Sunday, so it’s not just a party scene. It gives space for people of all ages to be part of the day. That’s something not every Pride event offers.
Tickets are around $24 for a single day or $46 for a weekend pass. Prices might shift depending on how early you buy them or which site you use. Back Lot Bash features both local artists and bigger names. The mix keeps the event grounded while still feeling special. It doesn’t rely on celebrity alone to make an impact.
Andersonville adds something extra. The neighborhood has deep LGBTQ+ roots, which makes the whole experience feel more connected to the community. Back Lot Bash is a standout because it’s built by and for women in the queer community. It’s upbeat, welcoming, and doesn’t lose its identity in the crowd.
PrideFest
Chicago Pride Fest is set for June 21–22, 2025, on Halsted Street in Northalsted. It runs both days from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. There’s a suggested $20 donation at the entrance, but no one is turned away.
Three stages feature live music across both days. Headliners include Jesse McCartney, Deborah Cox, Aluna, Confidence Man, and The Aces. Drag shows, dance crews, and the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus are part of the lineup, too. There’s a teen zone with games, DJs, snacks, and creative activities for ages 12 to 18. It’s open from noon to 5 p.m. both days.
The Proud Pet Parade brings out dogs in rainbow gear, which always draws a crowd. It’s casual, fun, and open to anyone who registers. Over 150 vendors line the streets with food, art, local services, and community booths. You’ll find everything from handmade accessories to advocacy groups.
Public transit is the easiest way in. The Red Line’s Addison stop, and the Belmont station are both close. Rideshares and Divvy bikes are solid options, too, since parking fills up early. Money from the fest supports performers, stage crews, and LGBTQ+ nonprofits. Some of it also goes toward things like keeping the rainbow crosswalks maintained year-round.
Pride South Side
Pride South Side takes place on July 5, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the DuSable Black History Museum in Washington Park. It’s free to attend and centers Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities.
This year’s theme is “The Right to Pride.” The event highlights voting rights and representation through speakers, community booths, and discussions around policy and equity. Vendors line the park with food, clothing, and handmade goods. There are also wellness tents, local services, and queer-owned businesses offering resources and support.
The DuSable Museum hosts the event, and people are encouraged to explore the exhibits inside. It adds an extra layer by tying the celebration to local Black history. Pride South Side is part of the wider Pride calendar, but the vibe is its own. It’s more rooted in community than commercial appeal and reflects the culture of Chicago’s South Side.
It’s built by local organizers who focus on creating space for queer Black and Brown people. The crowd is welcoming, the programming is thoughtful, and the energy stays strong all day.
Navy Pier Pride
Navy Pier Pride happens on June 28, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The event takes place along the lakefront at Navy Pier and is free to attend.
The day includes live music, drag shows, spoken word, and stage performances by LGBTQ+ artists. Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus is usually part of the lineup, along with a range of DJs and local acts. Performances happen across multiple areas of the pier. There’s a kids’ zone with crafts and family activities, run in partnership with the Chicago Children’s Museum. It includes bracelet-making stations and hands-on art projects. It’s welcoming to all ages.
A resource fair runs during the event, offering support from local health organizations, advocacy groups, and LGBTQ+ nonprofits. Booths are spread out along the pier with materials and volunteers on-site.
Toward the evening, DJs take over the Wave Wall platform with a lakeside set. Around 10:15 p.m., Navy Pier’s signature fireworks show begins over Lake Michigan. Just one of the many events and activities featured in our 50 Queer Things to do in Chicago post.
Chicago Pride Parade
The Chicago Pride Parade returns on Sunday, June 29, 2025. It starts at 11 a.m. at Sheridan and Broadway and travels through Northalsted, Uptown, and Lakeview before ending near Diversey and Cannon Drive.
The route covers just over two miles and draws huge crowds. Streets fill early, and most people watch from sidewalks, porches, or set up along the curb. This year’s theme is United in Pride. Grand marshals include TaskForce Prevention & Community Services, Dr. Maya Green, and Dr. Catherine Creticos—all chosen for their work in health and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Around 150 groups will take part in the parade. Expect to see floats, local organizations, marching bands, dance crews, and plenty of drag. The energy stays high from start to finish. Security is tight but respectful. Bags may be checked at some points along the route, and open alcohol isn’t allowed. Bottled water and sealed drinks are fine.
The parade usually brings out over a million people. It’s one of the biggest Pride events in the country and stretches well into the afternoon. People stick around in the neighborhood long after the last float passes.
Conclusion
Chicago doesn’t treat Pride like a one-day thing—it turns it into a full season. Between the big parades and the local block parties, every event brings its own vibe. Put together, they show what Pride really feels like in this city
