Bristol Celebrates Pride with Colorful Festival
Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia, came alive with **joyful energy** on Saturday as the annual TriPride Parade and Festival returned, inviting everyone to celebrate love, diversity, and community. Under the vibrant theme of “Color Appalachia with Pride!”, the festival was a delightful spectacle that brought together residents from both sides of the state line.
A Unique Celebration
This year’s event was not just about entertainment; it also aimed to spread a message of community support and resilience. Attendees had the unique opportunity to purchase a specially designed coloring book, which captured the spirit of the festival and provided fun for all ages. The books weren’t just mere keepsakes but also a reminder of the colorful experiences shared throughout the day.
Star-Studded Performances
The festival featured incredible performances by well-known drag queens including LaLa Ri and Maddy Morphosis, both rising stars from the hit show, RuPaul’s Drag Race. Musical talents like Sarah Potenza, renowned for her powerful performances on The Voice, also graced the stage. Alongside these stars, local artists added their charm, including this year’s Miss TriPride, Odessa Mann, and the debuting Mr. TriPride, Austin Rayne.
Supporting a Noble Cause
In line with its commitment to community, TriPride initiated a fundraising campaign leading up to the festival. Proceeds were earmarked for the United Way of the East Tennessee Highlands, an organization dedicated to aiding flood recovery efforts in the region. By the end of the day, festival organizers proudly announced that they had raised $8,350—a figure that will go directly to supporting those in need.
A Festive Atmosphere
The bustling atmosphere around **Cumberland Square Park** was electric, with over one hundred regional vendors showcasing their wares. Festival-goers were treated to a variety of delicious offerings from numerous food trucks. And for those in need of a lift after a long day of festivities, the City of Bristol, Virginia, provided free shuttle services to ensure everyone could enjoy the celebration without worry.
Community at Its Heart
Justin Hall, the president of TriPride, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the community spirit that the event fosters. “One of my favorite things about the festival is being able to watch community members be happy and at ease,” Hall shared. He emphasized that the joyous atmosphere, filled with dancing, performances, and laughter, was a product of the hard work put in by volunteers and sponsors. “It really means a lot and makes me happy,” he added, reflecting on the diverse crowd that came together.
Looking Forward
As the festival came to a close, Hall took a moment to thank everyone who contributed to its success, including the countless volunteers who dedicated their time to coordinate the festivities. “TriPride just thanks all of our volunteers, all of our sponsors, and all of you for coming out today and making this an amazing event,” he stated. The festival was not only a celebration of Pride but a vibrant display of unity and acceptance that resonated throughout the Bristol community.
For those looking to stay updated on future events, information about TriPride can be found on its official website. This festival not only showcased the colors of Pride but also shone a bright light on the strength and resilience of the community.
