We are a community organization rooted in Crystal Lake, Illinois, dedicated to celebrating, uplifting, and sharing resources with the queer community through visibility, joy, and connection.

Our story

Crystal Lake Pride was founded in April 2026 — but our roots go back two years before that.

2024

Our first community Pride event, produced in partnership with Downtown Crystal Lake, brought queer people and allies together in the heart of the city for the first time.

2025

We returned for a second year alongside Downtown Crystal Lake, growing the event and deepening our ties to the community.

2026

Crystal Lake Pride formally incorporated as an independent organization — ready to grow, plan year-round, and make Pride in Crystal Lake a permanent fixture.

Our mission

Crystal Lake Pride exists to educate the broader community about queer life through visibility, celebration, and resource-sharing. We believe that every person deserves to be seen, affirmed, and welcomed, and that pride isn't just an event, it's a practice.

Our organization is led by a board of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies who volunteer their time to make this work possible. All funds raised are used exclusively to support our events and mission.

Our events

Annual festival

Crystal Lake Pride Fest

Every first Sunday of June — a free, family-friendly celebration featuring live music, a queer artisan market, and a community resource fair.

Community events

Year-round gatherings

At least two smaller events throughout the year — opportunities to connect, organize, and celebrate together beyond the summer festival.

What we stand for

Visibility. We show up for the queer community in Crystal Lake and the surrounding area because representation in our own backyard matters.

Accessibility. Our primary June festival will always be free to attend. Inclusion means removing barriers, not adding them.

Community. We are led by LGBTQ+ people and allies who live and work here. This organization belongs to Crystal Lake.

Our board (click to learn more)

Crystal Lake Pride is governed by a volunteer board of up to nine members. Our leadership team includes:

President

Leads the organization and serves as our primary voice.

Vice President

Supports the President and steps in as needed.

Treasurer

Oversees finances and ensures funds serve the mission.

Secretary

Maintains records and documents our work.

Historian & Marketing

Manages our brand, social media, and organizational memory.

Directors at Large

Up to three members leading committees and special projects.