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Magic City Equality is hosting its annual three-day Pride Festival to celebrate and come together to uplift LGBTQ2S+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Two-Spirits and more) across North Dakota. Running Friday through Sunday, Aug. 21-23, the festival will include performers, cultural events, food, vendors and a safe space to come together as a community.
"Pride is about celebration, but it is also about community, visibility and creating spaces where people know they belong," said Magic City Equality leadership. "We want everyone who attends Minot Pride to know there is a community here for them and that they are welcome."
Originating in 2015, this will be year 11 for Minot's Pride. However organizing efforts have been in the making for more than a decade, according to Jorden Laducer, Magic City Equality’s treasurer. While the first event was small, what matters was that the event happened. Over the years, the event has expanded from a single-day event into a full weekend of festivities for all ages.
“We are a place where someone can walk through the door and know they don’t have to explain who they are before they are welcomed,” Laducer said.
Starting on Friday, from 7-11:30 p.m., is the Rainbow Pub Crawl for ages 21 and older. Participants will have the opportunity to visit multiple participating local establishments that welcome the LGBTQ2S+ and its allies, uplifting both local businesses and the community, according to organizers. A valid photo ID is required.
Saturday, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., is Pride in the Streets, a free event located on Main Street. Featuring vendors, food, entertainment, activities and booths of local businesses and community organizations, the event is open to everyone of all ages.
Later that day, at 7 p.m., is "Y-2 Gay: A Pride Drag Show Fueled by Millennial Delusion," held at the Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Center. This event is for anyone 18 and older and consists of an entirely North Dakota-based cast, highlighting local performers. General admission will be at the door for the millennial cultured nostalgia show.
To end the weekend on a high note, Drag Bingo will be held from noon-3 p.m. and is for anyone 18 and older. Drag Bingo will be at The Spot and combines bingo and drag entertainment.
In 2019, the group formerly known as Pride Minot became Magic City Equality, evolving to meet the needs of a community that was growing. The nonprofit organization focuses on education, advocacy, visibility, connection, support and community. Partnering with local businesses that are part of and support the organization’s efforts is an important piece in strengthening connections while also creating opportunities.
"At a time when LGBTQ2S+ people continue to face uncertainty and challenges, creating spaces where people can gather, celebrate and simply be themselves remains incredibly important," Magic City Equality leadership said. "Pride reminds people they are not alone and gives our broader community an opportunity to stand together and show that everyone deserves to feel welcomed, respected and valued.”