Organizers of Naples’ Pridefest say the June 7 event may have seen its biggest turnout yet, estimating that 4,000-5,000 were in attendance.
While the mood inside the park was one of inclusiveness and celebration, outside told a different story. Hundreds of protesters lined the street where the entrance to Pridefest was located, claiming the event was inappropriate for children. One of the protesters was arrested.
Naples Pride Executive Director Cori Craciun called the day a success, especially given recent tensions. “It was really heartwarming to see that the community showed up despite all the fearmongering,” Craciun said.
The City of Naples required that the drag shows be banned from the Pridefest stage. The event’s organizers filed an appeal and, just 24 hours before Pridefest began, a federal appeals court reversed the appeal and ordered that the drag performance be moved indoors and restricted to adults only. According to the court, the decision to move the show indoors was made for safety, not censorship. The court did not explain why that meant those under 18 could not attend. The sudden change left many disappointed.
The shows were moved to a nearby park district facility. Meanwhile, the Pridefest stage sat empty much of the time. Although it was seen by many as an act of segregation, some chose to see the silver lining, “At least we get to sit in air-conditioning instead of the blazing heat,” said one person waiting for the show to begin, referring to the 90º weather and lack of a breeze.
Nikki Adams, who performed in the show, echoed that sentiment, “It’s kind of a double-edged sword. While I don’t see any reason to move us indoors where we won’t be offended, and why anyone would be offended by drag, especially at an event they paid to get into, is beyond me, but I also appreciated performing in air-conditioning.”
Naples Pride Official Statement
In a community statement released by Naples Pride on June 6, the organizers wrote, “Pride was born from resistance, but it lives on through joy. And we refuse to let anything take that from us. Because showing up, celebrating who we are, and supporting one another is how we build the future we all deserve.
This Saturday, Naples PrideFest will bring our community together to honor love, affirm identity, and create space for joy. It's a time for us to gather, celebrate, and lift one another up because everyone deserves to feel seen, safe, and supported.
Although our PrideFest drag performances are moving indoors to the Norris Center, we remain proud to host the hundreds of attendees joining us to celebrate and support the performers.
We've also taken thoughtful steps to ensure the safety and comfort of every person attending. From working closely with the Naples Police Department to hiring private security, we are doing everything we can to create a welcoming and safe environment where everyone can express their pride freely.
We also invite all attendees to join us at the main stage in Cambier Park at 2:45 p.m. for a powerful moment of unity and reflection.
Naples Pride has always been bigger than a single day. It's about families, friends, neighbors, and allies standing together in love. It's about music, laughter, hugs, and happy tears. It's about community — and that's exactly why we're inviting you to join. Come as you are. Bring your flags, your laughter, your joy, your truth, your friends, and your full self. Because no matter what they say: Pride is happening. Pride is joyful. Pride belongs here - and so do you. Hate has no home here.
We can't wait to celebrate with you!"
- The Naples Pride Team
