Keene Pride Festival: A Celebration of All Avery Miller

Get ready for a day of celebration, connection and community spirit as the Keene Pride Festival returns to the streets of downtown Keene on Sunday, Sept. 21, from noon to 7 p.m. As the largest Pride event in the region, the Keene Pride Festival draws more than 5,000 attendees each year and this year's festival is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting one yet. The heart of Keene will come alive with music, art, food and vibrant expression. Festivalgoers can expect a full day of live entertainment, diverse performances, local vendors and delicious cuisine. It's a family-friendly celebration of love, acceptance and unity that welcomes everyone — LGBTQ+ individuals, allies and curious newcomers alike. This year's festival will feature over 150 local and regional vendors, including artisans, nonprofits, small businesses and sponsors each offering unique products, services or information in support of the LGBTQ+ community. Attendees can browse handmade crafts, community resources and interactive booths while enjoying an engaging lineup of performances throughout the day. Headlining the festival will be three standout hosts: Kelly Mantle, Sherry Vine and Miss Ginger Soulless, who will bring their charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent. Between performances, they'll keep the crowd entertained and energized. Music lovers will be in for a treat, with a full roster of talented musicians representing a wide range of styles: Andrea Paquin – A folk-rock artist known for her vivid storytelling, thoughtful lyrics and melodic arrangements. Antara Gatch, Chris Cheney and Jeanne Chappel – This dynamic trio brings a high-energy blend of alternative and folk-rock. Nova One – A queer band from Providence, R.I., known for their dreamy, emotionally rich sound that highlights themes of self-expression, vulnerability and queer identity. Sister Funk – A high-energy, all-female pop-rock band that delivers a fun, engaging stage presence. Sunset Electric – Their energetic alternative rock sound is infused with punk influences and an undeniable stage presence. Allie Burnet and The Proven Winners – An indie/alternative group combining guitars, viola, cello and bass into a rich, layered sound. No Pride festival would be complete without a bit of glamour and flair, and Keene delivers with a series of show-stopping drag performances from both kings and queens. Expect bold costumes, dazzling performances and lots of audience interaction throughout the day. Whether you're there for the music, the food, the community or simply to show your support, the Keene Pride Festival is an opportunity to celebrate inclusivity, authenticity and the power of being yourself. Keene Pride is more than just a day of fun — it's a meaningful event with a mission. The organization works year-round to promote visibility for LGBTQ+ people in the Monadnock Region, create opportunities for community engagement, and build a coalition of services, businesses and organizations that support and serve LGBTQ+ individuals. Attending the festival is a chance to be part of something bigger — a movement rooted in connection, equality and pride. For more information about the Keene Pride Festival or to learn more about the organization's ongoing work, visit www.keenepride.org or contact them at general@keenepride.org.