Photo by Thomas Flynn
MARSHALL — Marshall Pride celebrated a weekend of events, highlighted by a sold-out drag show and a community festival that drew residents from across the region.
According to Julie Walker, co-founder of Marshall Pride and a member of the event’s planning committee, the organization’s fifth annual drag show sold out once again. Organizers received calls throughout Friday and Saturday from people hoping to purchase tickets, but the event had already reached capacity.
Hosted at Brau Brothers Brewing Co., the show featured performers from across Minnesota and received enthusiastic support from attendees. Walker said the audience spent the evening dancing, singing along, and celebrating.
Among the performers was Miz Diagnosis, director of the Cultural Arts Center for Twin Cities Pride, who told organizers that Marshall Pride’s drag show is her favorite performance event of the year and one she plans her schedule around.
Walker said one of the most meaningful moments came when a family member shared how affirming the show was for a young nonbinary relative, who was especially moved by a performance of Defying Gravity that concluded with the unfurling of a transgender pride flag.
The celebration continued Sunday with Marshall Pride’s community festival, featuring food trucks, vendors, live entertainment, a kids’ corner, community art projects, and other family-friendly activities.
“There’s something for everybody here,” Walker said. “My favorite part is all the smiling people. It’s all about community.”
Photo by Thomas Flynn
Walker also credited sponsors, volunteers, and planning committee chair Jade Moorse for helping make the event possible. She said the gathering serves as a reminder that LGBTQ+ people are an important part of rural Minnesota communities and that Marshall Pride provides a space where people can come together to celebrate and support one another.
