It’s time to start thinking about summer, and that means one of the biggest dance parties on Milwaukee’s lakefront, Pridefest.

On Tuesday, Milwaukee Pride, Inc. announced that PrideFest will return to Henry Maier Festival Park from June 5-7. This year marks the 37th edition of the festival, which has been held annually on the Summerfest grounds since 1996. Wisconsin’s largest LGBTQ+ event will continue its Thursday-Saturday schedule once again.

Milwaukee Pride is expecting another impressive turnout following the third straight year of record-breaking attendance in 2024.

“Growth is a hard thing to gauge. It's not just measured by the people through the festival gates, although that's super important” said Wes Shaver, president and CEO of Milwaukee Pride, Inc. “It's about the growth you do behind the scenes; the relationships forged, the experiences people cherish, team members advancing in their roles, sponsorships, financial growth and sustainability. Those are the areas of growth I pay attention to closely. How can we make positive impacts and grow that impact where it really matters? That's what it's all about." 

Thanks to those increasing crowds, PrideFest is also bigger than ever. With an expanded footprint towards the south end of the grounds, there will be even more of the festival to take in. The additional space means more food buildings and a greater variety of local food and marketplace vendors, as well. The popular Red Light District will return, offering daytime panel discussions and workshops before transitioning into an evening entertainment space featuring cabaret, acoustic musicians, comedy, and more.

Pridefest 2025 will also feature new VIP experiences and a tiered ticketing system, which will offer VIP festival-goers premium amenities. The lofted hospitality area at the Miller Lite Oasis will turn into a lounge with complimentary food and beverages and entertainment. Additional viewing areas will be available at the Dance Pavilion and SKYYLine Mainstage.

In addition to the expanded footprint and new VIP experiences, PrideFest will also partner with Map King to create an map for this years festival that will allow the organizers to communicate with patrons in real time about the event. Festival goers will also be able to use the service for an interactive map, stage schedules, guides and more. The map will be available in March.

While acts haven’t been announced yet, this year’s festival will have six stages, hosting over 500 performers throughout the weekend. The SKYYLine Mainstage returns alongside the Dance Pavilion, home to Wisconsin’s largest outdoor dance party. Other returning attractions include the Intersection Stage, History Exhibit, and Children’s Area.

Festival attendees can access an interactive map starting in March 2025, allowing them to view stage schedules, vendors, and attractions while planning their visit.

In the coming weeks, Milwaukee Pride will announce performers, events, and ticket promotions. For full details, visit Pridefest.com, and stay tuned to OnMilwaukee for even more about the 2025 festival season.