The Statesville Pride Alliance will host its annual Pride Festival and Parade on Saturday, Sept. 26, bringing LGBTQ+ residents, families and allies together for a day of celebration in downtown Statesville. The free, family-friendly event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring live entertainment, drag performances, food trucks, local artisans and community organizations.
The festivities begin with a parade through downtown, followed by an afternoon of music, entertainment and activities. Festivalgoers can shop with local vendors, connect with LGBTQ+ organizations and discover resources serving Statesville and the surrounding Iredell County community. Now in its fifth year, the festival has grown into an annual downtown tradition.
According to Iredell Free News, the 2025 celebration doubled its vendor and food truck offerings, creating more opportunities for local businesses, artists and community organizations to participate. Mayor Costi Kutteh also signed the city’s fifth consecutive Pride Day proclamation, recognizing the LGBTQ+ community and its contributions to Statesville.
Founded in 2023, the Statesville Pride Alliance works to foster LGBTQ+ visibility, inclusion and connection beyond the annual festival. Through social gatherings, educational activities and community events, the organization creates opportunities for LGBTQ+ people and allies to build relationships and find support throughout the year.
The celebration continues Sunday, Sept. 27, with a Pride Drag Brunch at The Watering Hole. The time and additional details have not yet been announced.
For festival updates, entertainment schedules and parade information, visit the Statesville Pride Alliance website at https://www.statesvillepridealliance.com/.
This story is brought to you by Rosedale Health and Wellness and Dudley’s Place.
