Milwaukee Pride Fest 2023 kicks off

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The summer of festivals in Milwaukee is kicking off with a big party.

Pride Fest returned to Milwaukee at the start of Pride Month on June 1.

Pride Fest is Milwaukee's largest LGBTQ celebration.

"I've been coming to Pride Fest for as long as I can remember," Dale Quick said.

People who've attended Pride Fest for decades said they've loved seeing it grow.

"I notice a change every year that I come down here. They add a little bit here and there and it's really awesome," Ronald Hammer said.

Pride Fest typically sees upwards of 40,000 people, according to organizers.

"The weather is promising to be very beautiful this weekend and I hope that we're going to bust through some attendance records," Dance Pavillion Manager Jorna Taylor said.

The festival is based on acceptance and welcoming everyone no matter who they are.

"Gay, straight, allied, anyone from the community, should feel welcome to come celebrate with us at Pride Fest," Taylor said.

Pride Fest runs through Saturday, June 3 at midnight.