Organizers for the second annual Lakefront PRIDE Party & 5K Run/Walk have lofty goals for the event, scheduled for 6-10 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, at Fullerton Avenue and Lake Shore Drive.
Last year, the event drew about 500 participants and raised more than $1,000 for charity. This year, organizers are shooting for more than 1,000 attendees and they are hoping to raise $10,000 for the Center on Halsted.
"Our goal is for this year's event to [be] bigger and better than 2014 and to get the community excited and engaged for Pride weekend by hosting an unforgettable lakefront party and 5K run/walk that will benefit a well-deserving local community organization," said Michelle Krage, president of StarEvents, which is producing the event.
"Last year, the event focused on the 5K run/walk, which culminated in an after-party for participants to celebrate with their friends. This year, we're inviting the larger communityrunners and non-runners aliketo kick off their Pride weekend with an unforgettable lakefront party. The 5K run/walk is just one part of the party.
"This will be an unforgettable party for a great local causea chance for participants to show their true colors. There's no better feeling than having fun with your friends while knowing you're helping to advance the good work of a respected local community organization."
Krage said the Center was selected because of its mission of advancing the LGBTQ community and people of the Chicagoland area to have them live powerfully in a supportive and inclusive environment. "As an event producer, StarEvents believes in supporting local non-profit groups and giving back to the community," she said.
"The lakefront party will be bigger and better than [last year], with some of the best DJs in the industry who will start Pride Week off with a bang," Krage said. "We encourage participants to dress up in colorful costumes and will have beads and boas on-hand for everyone. If participants sign up as a team of 10 or 20, they will get access to a private tent/cabana with costume essentials, snacks and complimentary champagne."
The party will feature DJs Matthew Harvat and Adam LeBlanc. "These industry veterans know how to engage a crowd and will set the perfect pace for the party and Pride week," Krage said.
Last year's race winners ( individual male and female and top couple ) were pampered with services from a local spa, said Krage, who would not reveal the winners' names.
Participants can register for the Pride 5K walk/run and reserve their team cabana at starevents.com/events/pride-5k/ .