GayPride Festival steps out across town (photo spread)

Many dozen people came to Lyons on Saturday, June 18, to connect with community organizations including Wide Spaces Community Initiative, Out Boulder County, OASOS, RISE Against Suicide, St Vrain Valley Safe School Coalition, PFLAG Boulder, Boulder Valley Women’s Health Center and Rooted.

The day began at a packed Stone Cup coffee shop where parties socialized, networked, laughed, and started off their caffeine-energized day. Next, at 11 a.m., people walked over to Sandstone Park.

Lyons mayor Hollie Rogin read the Town of Lyons Proclamation making June LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Folks gathered around the many booths to get information about Gay Pride and encouragement, grabbing the many booklets and reference material. Kids enjoyed the craft booths, including face painting. And everyone got a chance to spin the wheel to win a small prize. The live band Medicine Rose played buoyant music, interspersed with expert speakers.

At 12 noon, the people followed a leader around the Main Street blocks, with banners, posters, and flags, with many cars honking their horns in support. It was almost like they were dancing along the sidewalk.

The sunny day didn’t end there, but continued at Main Stage Brewery for a 3-5 p.m. Happy Hour. There was truly something for everyone… from a morning pastry to an evening draft beer. Thank you to the group that planned this over the past few months, and we hope we can do it all over again next summer!