F.A.Q.

What are the dates and hours of the Pride Festival?

Westminster Pride 2024 will take place July 13th from 12-6pm

Is there an admission fee for the Pride Festival?

The Westminster Pride Festival is free to attend! Show up, listen to some tunes, eat some food, educate yourself and show your support!

What is the history and purpose of this Pride Festival?

The Westminster Pride Festival, which started in 2018, is an annual celebration aimed at fostering acceptance, solidarity, and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies in Carroll County. This event serves as a safe space for self-expression and encourages respect for all forms of sexual and gender identity. Beyond the festivities that include music, art, and food, the festival is part of a broader mission to support the LGBTQ+ community through potential scholarships for education, making it not just a celebration but a catalyst for change and support for LGBTQ+ students.

Are there any age restrictions for attending the Pride Festival?

No. The Westminster Pride Festival welcomes all ages! Please be aware that there may be children in attendance, dress accordingly.

Is the Pride Festival accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the Westminster Pride Festival is committed to being accessible and inclusive for all attendees. We have ensured that there are handicap-accessible bathrooms located at either end of the festival for convenience and ease of access. Additionally, our street festival layout is designed with accessibility in mind, allowing for easy navigation for wheelchairs and other mobility aids

Where exactly is the Pride Festival located?

What are the best ways to get to the Pride Festival? Are there recommended public transportation routes or parking options?

The above red areas are open and available for parking. Street parking is always available outside the festival area.

Will there be bike parking available at the Pride Festival?

Yes, we welcome festival-goers who choose to come by bike, promoting an eco-friendly mode of transportation. Bike parking will be available near the entrances of the festival area. While we do not provide attendants for bike parking, we encourage you to bring a secure lock and to park your bicycle in the designated areas only. Please follow any posted signs or instructions related to bike parking to ensure the safety and accessibility of the festival streets for all attendees.

What kind of entertainment will be present at the Pride Festival?

The Westminster Pride Festival is proud to showcase a diverse array of entertainment that spans various genres and artistic expressions. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant lineup that includes dynamic drag performances, energetic DJs spinning tracks that get everyone moving, live bands that bring a range of sounds and styles, as well as theater groups that offer thought-provoking and engaging productions. Our festival is a reflection of the diversity and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Are there scheduled times for the main events or performances?

Yes, there will be a scheduled program for all the main events and performances. We’re currently finalizing the times and details of each act to bring you a seamless and entertaining experience. The full entertainment schedule will be shared on our social media channels closer to the date of the festival, so make sure to follow us to stay updated with the latest information.

How can I sign up to volunteer at the Pride Festival?

We’re always in search of enthusiastic volunteers to help the Westminster Pride Festival run smoothly! If you’re interested in contributing your time and becoming a part of this vibrant event, we invite you to fill out the volunteer form on our website. Once you submit the form, our volunteer coordinator will review your information and reach out to you about available volunteer opportunities. Whether you can lend a hand setting up, assisting during the festival, or helping with the cleanup afterward, your support is invaluable to us. We’re excited to welcome you to our community-driven team!

What security measures are in place at the Pride Festival?

Our festival’s safety is a top priority, which is why we have a team of dedicated volunteers who will be readily identifiable and walking around the festival area to assist with any questions or concerns you might have. Additionally, the Westminster Police Department officers will also be present throughout the festival, ensuring everyone’s safety and providing assistance as needed.

What is the festival’s policy on bags and backpacks?

Bags and backpacks are allowed at the Westminster Pride Festival. We want our attendees to bring what they need to be comfortable and enjoy their day. However, for everyone’s safety, we reserve the right to perform bag checks at the discretion of festival security.

Are pets allowed at the Pride Festival?

Yes, your furry friends are welcome at the festival! We just ask that all pets be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful that the festival can get quite loud and the weather can be hot, which might be uncomfortable for some animals. Make sure your pets are comfortable with crowds and noise, and bring water and other necessary items to keep them cool and hydrated.

Is there a lost and found at the festival in case I lose something?

While we do not have a designated lost and found area, any items found and turned in to the Westminster Pride Festival Booth or to any of our volunteers will be held for at least a week post-festival. If you lose an item, please speak with one of our volunteers or visit the festival booth. In the unfortunate event you suspect something has been stolen, please report it immediately to one of the police officers on site. You can also reach out to us via Facebook or Instagram for lost items, and we’ll respond as soon as possible to assist you. The Westminster Pride Festival is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.

Will food and beverages be available for purchase at the Pride Festival?

Yes, we will have a selection of food and beverage vendors at the Pride Festival. Each vendor will offer a variety of options, and it’s up to them to provide different dietary alternatives. We encourage you to visit the various stalls to explore the offerings that cater to vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs.

Are there public restrooms at the Pride Festival? Are there any gender-neutral facilities?

For your convenience, portable restrooms are located at both ends of the festival grounds. All of our portable restrooms are single-stall and gender-neutral, ensuring privacy and accessibility for all our guests. If you require assistance locating these facilities or have any other specific needs, our volunteers will be happy to help guide you.

Will there be a list of vendors and community booths available before the Pride Festival?

Yes, a complete list of vendors and exhibitors, along with a map of their locations at the festival, will be posted on our social media platforms closer to the festival date. This will give you the opportunity to plan your visit and identify the booths you’d like to explore. Make sure to follow us to get the latest updates and information.

How can local business owners apply to be a vendor at the festival?

Local business owners interested in participating as vendors at the Pride Festival are encouraged to apply through our website. There is a dedicated ‘Become a Vendor’ section where you can find all the necessary information and the application form. We welcome a diverse array of vendors to apply, as our aim is to offer over 100 different vendors, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

What types of vendors and community organizations will be at the festival?

The Westminster Pride Festival boasts a rich assortment of over 100 vendors ranging from artisanal crafts, clothing, and accessories, to food and drink providers offering a vast selection of treats. We also host many local organizations that provide valuable information and services, allowing attendees to learn about various resources and support available within the community. Our festival is a vibrant tapestry of commerce and community, highlighting the best and most inclusive of what Carroll County has to offer.