Flagstaff, AZ — Flagstaff Pride announced today that the 30th year of Pride in the Pines will take place on June 20, 2026 at Thorpe Park, with an updated festival format designed to ensure long-term sustainability while keeping Pride accessible to the entire community.
In response to a significant reduction in corporate sponsorship and grant funding this year — a trend affecting Pride organizations nationwide — the Flagstaff Pride Board has made the decision to scale back the size of the festival production while maintaining the Parade and core community elements.
“Pride in the Pines has always been about community first,” said Zane Jacobs, Board President of Flagstaff Pride. “In our 30th year, we are returning to our roots – creating a welcoming, joyful gathering in the park that prioritizes accessibility and connection.”
What to Expect on June 20
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The annual Pride Parade in downtown Flagstaff kicking off 10am
The 2026 Pride in the Pines at Thorpe Park will include:
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Entertainment featuring local performers
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A Vendor Market with local businesses and nonprofits
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Food trucks and community partners
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A kids area
Instead of a large-scale main stage production, this year’s event will focus on grassroots celebration – similar to the early years of Pride in the Pines when a small group first gathered under a ramada at Fort Tuthill Park in 1996.
A Free Event for the Community
In a significant shift, Pride in the Pines will be free to attend in its 30th year.
However, all attendees must reserve a ticket in advance.
Why the Change
Producing Pride in the Pines requires substantial funding, including park permits, insurance, security, staging, sound, sanitation, and infrastructure. With reduced sponsorship and grant support compared to previous years, the Board made the responsible decision to adjust the event’s scale in order to protect the long-term sustainability of Pride in Flagstaff.
“Some Pride organizations across the country have been forced to cancel entirely,” said Carrie Nelson, Secretary. “We are committed to ensuring Pride continues here in Flagstaff – not just this year, but for years to come.”
30 Years Strong
Pride in the Pines began in 1996 as a modest community gathering and has grown into one of Northern Arizona’s most recognized celebrations of visibility, inclusion, and equality. Over three decades, Flagstaff Pride has played a role in advancing local 2SLGBTQIA+ protections, celebrating milestones in marriage equality, and fostering community connection.
This year’s return to a more intimate, community-centered format honors that legacy.
Community Support Still Needed
While the event will be free to attend, it is not free to produce. Flagstaff Pride continues to seek community sponsors, donors, and volunteers to help support the 30th year of Pride in the Pines.
Businesses and individuals interested in supporting the event can email Zane@flagstaffpride.org
Event Details:
June 20, 2026
Thorpe Park, Flagstaff, Arizona
Free to attend
For media inquiries, interviews, or sponsorship opportunities:
Zane Jacobs, Board President
Flagstaff Pride
zane@flagstaffpride.org
FlagstaffPride.org
