Lincoln’s LGBTQIA2S+ community and allies gathered June 12-13 for Star City Pride 2026, a weekend filled with community events, a downtown parade, live entertainment, food and celebration.
The 2026 event marked the 20th Annual Star City Pride Festival, bringing residents and visitors together to celebrate diversity, inclusion and LGBTQIA2S+ history.
Pride Weekend Began at Woods Park
The festivities kicked off Friday, June 12, with Pride in the Park at Woods Park near 33rd and O Streets.
Held from 4 to 8 p.m., the family-friendly event offered attendees an afternoon of entertainment, community connection and celebration ahead of Saturday’s larger events.
Fourth Annual Pride Parade Filled Downtown Streets
On Saturday, June 13, the Star City Pride Parade returned for its fourth year around the Nebraska State Capitol.
The free public event celebrated Lincoln’s LGBTQIA2S+ community and drew more than 1,000 attendees. More than 50 organizations, businesses and community groups participated in the parade, marching through downtown Lincoln and around the Capitol grounds.
Street closures around the Capitol required attendees to utilize nearby parking garages and side streets throughout the day.
“Rainbow Rewind” Honored LGBTQIA2S+ History
Following the parade, attendees continued the celebration at the 20th Annual Star City Pride Festival, held outside Das Haus on 17th Street between O and P Streets.
Running from noon until just before midnight, the festival embraced the theme “Rainbow Rewind,” honoring LGBTQIA2S+ history and recognizing those whose advocacy and activism helped pave the way for today’s Pride celebrations.
Festival-goers enjoyed dozens of community and vendor booths, live stage performances, local food trucks and a variety of Pride-themed activities and entertainment.
The festival welcomed attendees of all ages through the afternoon before transitioning to an 18-and-over event after 6 p.m.
Brunch Event Featured Drag Performances and Southern Cuisine
Saturday’s festivities also included Brunch on the Square, hosted by Star City Pride and Lila Mae’s Southern Kitchen.
The event combined Southern comfort food, music, and entertainment, including a drag show that began at 1 p.m. and was accompanied by music provided by DJ Lady Ice.
Guests enjoyed a menu featuring fresh fruit, eggs, breakfast potatoes, grits, sausage, bacon, hot chicken bites, biscuits and gravy and other brunch favorites.
A Weekend of Pride and Community
Throughout the weekend, Star City Pride 2026 provided opportunities for celebration, education and community engagement. From family-friendly gatherings and a growing downtown parade to live entertainment and historical reflection, the event highlighted both the progress and continuing strength of Lincoln’s LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Organizers described the weekend as a successful celebration of Pride, community and the individuals whose efforts helped make such events possible.