27th annual Savannah Pride Festival draws thousands to Forsyth Park

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The 27th annual Savannah Pride Festival in Forsyth Park wrapped up on Saturday with more than 100 vendors filling the park.

The event was expected to bring about 5,000 people to explore and connect with services and resources available throughout the region.

This year’s theme: “Chosen Family: Love Beyond Fear.”

Savannah Pride has been operating for nearly 30 years, giving LGBTQIA+ people across Coastal Georgia and beyond a space to openly celebrate who they are and find community.

“Pride is certainly a celebration, but it has never been only a celebration,” said Michael Bell, executive director of Savannah Pride Center. “For 27 years, people have come together in Savannah to say that there is a place for us here. This year’s theme, ‘Chosen Family,’ speaks to something deeply rooted in LGBTQIA+ history — the families we create, the people who show up for us and the communities that remind us we are never alone.”

The festival started with a sensory-conscious market experience, then turned into a day filled with local drag performers, DJs, live entertainment, games and activities, and food trucks.

“The festival is one day, but the community we serve exists 365 days a year,” Bell said. “Someone celebrating with us in Forsyth Park may also be someone who comes through our doors months later looking for a doctor, counseling, housing assistance, HIV prevention services, or simply a place where they know they will be welcomed. Pride creates those connections. It reminds people that the community is here — and that there is a place for them in Savannah.”

Returning to host this year’s festivities were Club One comedian Blair Williams and Chi Chi Bonet Sherrington.

The celebration continued with Savannah Pride’s glow and foam party.