Thrilling concerts, fun-filled parties and charitable service projects will sweep across the Magic City, as Pride Minot hosts its fifth annual Pride Minot Festival, tonight- Sunday.

Described as an exciting opportunity to soak up the sun and meet friends, Pride Minot president Christina Fjeld, is looking forward to a four-day celebration of kindness, unity, equality and personal expression.

“We’re so excited to bring the festival back again,” Fjeld said. “We’re looking forward to everyone coming together and having a fun time. We want this event to be huge and we’re happy to see the festival growing.”

Starting tonight, the Vegas Motel will hold a kick-off party in the Monte Carlo Room, from 6 p.m.- 12 a.m.

During the party, guests can order appetizers and entrees from Sevens Bar & Restaurant, located inside the Vegas Motel.

Visitors of all ages are welcomed to attend, however, it’s recommended while not required that minors be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the kick-off.

“The kick-off is one of my favorite events,” Fjeld said. “It’s a big social event which is very low-key and laid-back. Throughout the night, we’ll play trivia and have raffle prize drawings. During this event, the community can come together and meet people they may have not talked to before. This is a good opportunity to build friendships, have fun and meet someone you may not have know was a member of this community.”

In addition to providing live music, entertainment and community service projects, the Pride Minot Festival aims to strengthen and serve the Pride voices of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender, questioning and allies.

“We’re here and we’re a part of this community and we want to contribute,” Fjeld said. “We’re aiming to spread education to break down misconceptions. All are welcome.”

Following tonight’s kick-off party, concertgoers can attend a live shadowcast performance of the Rocky Horror Picture Show, performed by the Magic City Misfits, inside the ballroom at the Vegas Motel, Friday at 8 p.m.

Tickets for the event are $15 and can be purchased online www.rockyhorrorprideshow.bpt.me or at the door.

Guests under the age of 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian as some content may not be suitable for younger audiences. Viewers discretion is advised.

“During the shadowcast performance, the movie plays in the background as the performers act it out,” said James Falcon, producer and co-director of the Rocky Horror Picture Show. “So, you’re seeing a movie and a play at the same time and audience participation is encouraged.”

For guests who enjoy a brisk walk in the park or an exciting sprint through the woods, the Rainbow Run 5K will be featured at Oak Park, Saturday at 9 a.m. with registration taking place at 8:30 a.m.

After enjoying a scenic adventure through Oak Park, the Pride Minot Festival will continue the outdoor celebration as vendors and entertainment is featured during “Pride in the Park”, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., before closing Saturday’s festivities with “Minot In Drag” in the Coliseum Room at the Holiday-Inn Riverside at 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, the Pride Minot Festival will begin its conclusion with an all inclusive church service held at Oark Park shelter number eight at 9 a.m., followed by a “Post-Pride” brunch at Broadway Bean and Bagel, from 10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. and will close with “Pride with a Purpose,” located in the Minot YWCA at 12:45 p.m.

For more information about the Pride Minot Festival, visit online at www.facebook.com/PrideMinot.