What is Springfield PrideFest?

In 2010, staff at The Phoenix Center posed a simple question: Why doesn’t Springfield have its own Pride Festival? That question sparked a movement. A dedicated group of volunteers came together with a shared vision, and after months of hard work, Springfield Pride was born in May 2011.

Now a beloved Central Illinois tradition held on the third Saturday of May, Springfield Pride is a vibrant, full-day celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies. More than just a street fair, it’s a day to embrace diversity, celebrate our authentic selves, and stand in solidarity. The festival transforms our downtown into a space of joy and connection, offering something for everyone—from a lively kids’ area and a main stage packed with live entertainment to a diverse marketplace of artisans, food vendors, and community organizations.

Springfield Pride is proudly organized by the Phoenix Center. The energy and support from this incredible day help fuel our year-round mission of providing a safe, affirming, and empowering space for our entire community. To learn more about Phoenix Center’s work, please explore our website.

2026 PrideFest Committee

• Event Chairs
  • Teresa Silva
  • Roy Pyers
• Social Media Chairs
  • Jodi Tabor
  • Sally Stephens
• Black Pride Chairs
  • Ricki Marvel-Ottwell
  •  
• Hospitality Chairs
  • Rob Weis
  • Chrissy Wynn
  • Lisa Kording
• Volunteer Chair 
  • Cindy Martsch
  •  
• Sales Chair
  • Laura Hendricks
• Parade Chair
  • Paul Staab III
  •  
• Accessibility Chairs
  • Melissa Norman
  • Megan Norlan
• Family Area
  • Raylee Griffin
  • Madison Dicus
• Peace Team Chairs
  • Jenae Miller
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• Alcohol Chair
  • Justin Rebbe
• Entertainment Chairs 
  • Josh Wright
  • Dean Myrick
  • Jodi Tabor
• Sponsorship Chair
  • Tiffany Mathis Posey
• Logistics Chairs
  • Davina Hughes