2026 Theme Pride is a Protest
Heartland Pride
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Help & answers · July 17–18, 2026

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Everything about the weekend in one place — tickets, the parade, getting here, accessibility, and more. Ask the assistant, or browse by topic.

Ask the Pride Assistant

Answers from official event info

A quick way to get answers about the weekend. The assistant only uses confirmed event information — if something isn't locked yet, it'll tell you and point you to the right place.

For anything personal or urgent, use the contact links in the footer. This assistant is a helper, not an official ticket or registration channel.

Hi — I'm the Heartland Pride Assistant. Ask me about tickets, the parade, getting downtown, accessibility, or anything else about the weekend.

01 Friday Night: Youth Pride

What is Friday's Youth Pride event, and how is it different from Saturday?
Friday Youth Pride is a free, family-friendly celebration held the evening before Heartland Pride's main Saturday festival. It's built specifically for LGBTQ+ youth and their families: a welcoming, affirming space to open Pride weekend with music, performances, food, and community. Saturday is our larger, all-ages festival and parade. In short, Friday is a youth-centered opening night, and Saturday is the full community celebration.
What date, time, and where does Youth Pride take place?
Friday, July 17, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglass Street, Omaha, NE 68102. Doors officially open at 5:15 PM.
Who is Youth Pride for?
Youth Pride is designed for LGBTQ+ youth and their families, and everyone is welcome. Performances and programming are curated to be age-appropriate and affirming for young people and families. To keep the event safe and family-friendly, children and youth under 16 should be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian for the duration of the event. Heartland Pride and Omaha Performing Arts reserve the right to refuse admission to, or remove, any individual whose conduct is disruptive, unsafe, or inconsistent with the welcoming nature of the event.
Do I need a ticket for Youth Pride, or is it a free event?
Youth Pride is completely free. No tickets or registration are required, and all attendees will pass through security screening when they arrive.
Are parents, guardians, or adults allowed to attend Youth Pride with their teens?

Yes. Youth Pride is a family-friendly community event, and parents, guardians, and supportive adults are welcome. Attendance is not limited to adults accompanying a young person, as the event is open to the broader community in support of LGBTQ+ youth and families.

To keep the event safe and welcoming for everyone, all attendees pass through security screening on entry and are expected to follow our code of conduct. Children and youth under 16 should be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian throughout the event. Heartland Pride reserves the right to refuse entry to, or remove, anyone whose conduct is unsafe, inappropriate, or inconsistent with the affirming, family-friendly nature of the event.

Is there a bag policy or security screening at the Friday Youth Pride venue?
Because Youth Pride is hosted at the Holland Performing Arts Center, the venue's standard Omaha Performing Arts security and bag policies apply. All guests are subject to a metal-detector screening, a visual inspection, and a bag inspection conducted by Omaha Performing Arts security staff. Clear bags are not required, but your bag may be inspected at entry. Please do not bring bags larger than 14"x14"x6" or backpacks of any kind. Prohibited items include outside alcohol, weapons, and other restricted items under Omaha Performing Arts policy.
Will food and drinks be available on Friday?
Yes. Heartland Pride, in partnership with Omaha Performing Arts, will provide complimentary food, beverages, water, and snacks for youth at the event.
Who's performing at Youth Pride?
The night features DJ Riz, local performers, and headliner Nina West. Nina is a drag performer, actor, singer-songwriter, and LGBTQ+ activist best known from Season 11 of RuPaul's Drag Race, where she won Miss Congeniality. She is also a longtime advocate for young people, raising more than $2 million through the Nina West Foundation for initiatives supporting LGBTQ+ youth and their families.
Can vendors participate in Youth Pride?
Yes. Youth Pride does not have its own separate vendor registration. Vendors register and pay for our main Saturday event, and during that registration they can choose whether to also have their booth open for Friday's Youth Pride. If you're interested in vending, check out our vendor registration for full details.

02 Saturday Tickets, Passes & Admission

What date and time do the Saturday Pride Festival gates open and close?
Saturday's festivities begin right after the Heartland Pride Parade concludes. The indoor festival at the Holland Center and Tenaska opens at 12:00 PM and runs until 4:00 PM. The evening show at Steelhouse Omaha runs from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Where does the Saturday festival and evening show take place?
The festival takes place across the Holland Center and Tenaska Center. The evening show takes place at Steelhouse Omaha. All three venues are located near one another in downtown Omaha, making it easy to move between them.
What tickets are available, and what does each include?

We offer four passes:

  • Festival Day Pass ($26.00): Access to the festival at the Holland Center and Tenaska, including 200+ vendors, local artisans, community organizations, resource tables, food and beverages, karaoke, interactive activities, and live performances from local and drag entertainers.
  • Show Pass ($31.00): Access to the evening show at Steelhouse Omaha, featuring local performers and headliners Sasha Colby, Margaret Cho, Nina West, and RealXman.
  • All Access Pass ($36.00): Includes everything in the Festival Day Pass, plus admission to the evening show at Steelhouse Omaha.
  • VIP All Access Pass ($113.00): Includes everything in the All Access Pass, plus access to a dedicated VIP area, a VIP bar with snacks, and meet-and-greet opportunities with Sasha Colby, Margaret Cho, and Nina West.
What does the VIP pass include?
The VIP All Access Pass ($113.00) includes admission to the daytime festival and the evening show at Steelhouse Omaha, plus access to a dedicated VIP area, a VIP bar with snacks, and meet-and-greet opportunities with Sasha Colby, Margaret Cho, and Nina West. VIP availability is limited.
Can I go to just the daytime festival, or just the evening show?
Yes. The Festival Day Pass ($26.00) covers the daytime festival only. The Show Pass ($31.00) covers the Steelhouse evening show only. The All Access Pass and VIP All Access Pass cover both.
How much do tickets cost, and are there reduced rates for children or students?
Children ages 9 and under receive free admission. Students ages 10 to 17 may purchase a Student Pass for $15.00, available in person on the day of the festival. Guests ages 18 and older must purchase a standard ticket.
Do children need a ticket, and what is the age cutoff for free entry?
Children ages 9 and under receive free admission. Children and youth ages 10 to 17 may purchase a Student Pass for $15.00, available in person on the day of the festival.
Where do I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online through Ticket Omaha. See the buy buttons on the Festival page. VIP All Access Passes are limited and may sell out in advance, so we encourage purchasing early.
Can I purchase tickets at the gate?
Yes. Tickets are available online and at the gate, subject to availability. VIP All Access Passes are limited and may sell out before the event. Check the Festival page for gate ticket details as the event approaches.
Are tickets refundable?
All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.
Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?
Tickets cannot be reassigned to a different name. However, tickets can be shared with another person through your Ticket Omaha wallet — use the Share feature to send tickets by text, email, or another messaging app. Each ticket can only be scanned once, so if a ticket has not been shared in advance, all members of the party should enter together.
Can I upgrade my ticket to VIP after purchasing?
We do not offer upgrades at this time. VIP passes are limited and may sell out before the event, so we encourage attendees to purchase their preferred ticket type when ordering.
Will my ticket be physical or digital?
All tickets are digital. Log in to your Ticket Omaha wallet with the credentials you used to purchase, then present the revolving QR code at the venue. Screenshots and printouts are not accepted. You can add tickets to your Apple Wallet or bookmark the ticket wallet on your phone's home screen.
Is there a maximum number of tickets one person can buy?
You can purchase up to 8 tickets in a single order.
Are ticket payment plans available?
Heartland Pride does not offer payment plans. All ticket sales are processed through Ticket Omaha. Any financing or installment options offered by third-party providers are independent of Heartland Pride and subject to those providers' terms and conditions.

03 Festival & Show

When and where is the festival?
Saturday, July 18, 2026. The daytime festival and vendor show is at the Holland Center and Tenaska Center; the evening show is at Steelhouse Omaha. All venues are in downtown Omaha, in partnership with Omaha Performing Arts.
What's at the daytime festival?
200+ vendors, local artisans, community organizations, resource tables, food and drinks, karaoke, interactive activities, local performers, and an afternoon drag show.
Who's performing in the evening?
Sasha Colby, Margaret Cho, Nina West, and RealXman, plus additional local performers to be announced.
Is there a set schedule with times?
Coming soon  The official daytime schedule and set times are still being finalized. We'll publish them here and in the Day-of App as soon as they're locked.

04 Parade

Do I need a ticket to watch the parade?
No. The parade is free and open to the public. No ticket is required to watch.
What time does the parade start, and how long does it last?
The Pride Parade steps off at 10:00 AM on Saturday, July 18, and is expected to conclude around 12:00 PM. Because the parade travels along the route, it will reach different viewing areas at different times. If you're participating in the parade, please plan to arrive early for staging and lineup instructions.
What is the official 2026 parade route?
Coming soon  The 2026 route is still being finalized as we work with the City of Omaha on approval. We'll publish it here as soon as it's confirmed. Registered participants will receive route details directly in the weeks leading up to the parade.
What time should I arrive to get a good viewing spot?
Viewing along the route is first come, first served, so arriving 30 to 60 minutes before the 10:00 AM start is a good idea. This gives you time to find a spot, get settled, and enjoy the atmosphere before the parade begins. Popular areas near the start of the route tend to fill up first, and downtown parking and street closures can add extra travel time.
Am I allowed to place chairs or blankets to save spots early?
We ask that spectators wait until the morning of the parade to set out chairs or blankets, and do so in a way that keeps sidewalks, crosswalks, building entrances, and accessible routes clear. Public sidewalks and curbs cannot be roped off, reserved, or blocked, and unattended items that create a safety or accessibility concern may be removed. Please be considerate of fellow spectators, nearby businesses, and people who use mobility devices. Before leaving, please remove all personal items and help keep downtown clean and welcoming for everyone.
Are there bleachers or designated seating along the route?
There are no public bleachers or designated seating areas along the route. Viewing is standing room only, though you're welcome to bring your own chair or blanket within the guidelines above.
Are there restrooms along the parade route?
Yes. Heartland Pride places rented portable restrooms at points along the parade route. Specific locations will be posted in the Day-of App closer to the event. Additional public restrooms are also available at businesses and facilities throughout downtown Omaha.
How do I register to march in the parade?
Registration is open now through our Eventeny portal and closes Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 11:00 PM CT. The registration link is also available on the Parade page.
Is there a registration fee to march?
Yes. Parade registration fees are: nonprofit organizations $145.00 (non-refundable); for-profit businesses and political candidates $410.00 (non-refundable). These fees help cover security, promotion, and other parade-related expenses.
Are decorated vehicles or floats allowed in the parade?
Yes. Decorated personal vehicles, company vehicles, and floats are welcome, provided they meet all safety requirements. Vehicle operators must be properly licensed and insured. Participants planning to enter a large float or oversized vehicle should contact the parade team in advance to discuss permitting and logistical requirements.
When will registered participants receive lineup and staging instructions?
Setup and lineup instructions will be sent by the official Heartland Pride parade team to the contact name and email provided during registration, in the weeks leading up to the parade.
Can families and animals participate?
Families are welcome to watch and to march with registered groups. Leashed pets are generally welcome along the outdoor parade route at the owner's discretion, weather permitting. Please note that pets are not permitted inside the indoor festival venues — only service animals are allowed inside.
What are the safety rules for parade participants?
No strobe lights; no alcohol or illegal substances during staging or along the route; hand items directly to attendees rather than throwing them into crowds; follow all staff, volunteer, and law enforcement directions. Full details are on the Parade page.

05 Getting Here & Staying

Where should I stay?
The venues are clustered downtown and walkable, so a downtown hotel is easiest. There's a curated list — and an official partner hotel being announced soon — on the Stay page.
Where is the best place to park?
The Omaha Park Eight garage is the closest parking option to the Holland Center and Tenaska Center. For Steelhouse Omaha, the 12th & Capitol Garage is a convenient nearby option. Additional downtown garages, surface lots, and street parking are available throughout the area. The closest options fill early, so arrive with a buffer or use rideshare.
How much does parking cost?
Parking rates vary throughout downtown Omaha and may differ by location and event. We recommend checking current rates and availability before your visit through ParkOmaha or the parking facility you plan to use.
Is there accessible or ADA parking near the venues?
Yes. Accessible parking is available in the Arrival Plaza along Douglass Street on a first-come, first-served basis, and in the Omaha Park Eight garage. Curbside drop-off is also available on Douglass Street. We recommend arriving early, as accessible spaces may fill quickly.
Where are the rideshare drop-off and pickup zones?
Coming soon  Rideshare pickup and drop-off locations will be announced closer to the event. Because parade routes, street closures, and construction can affect traffic flow, check the event website and Day-of App before your visit for the most current transportation information.
Is the festival accessible by public transit?
Yes. ORBT and several Metro transit routes serve downtown Omaha, with stops within a short walk of the Holland Center, Tenaska Center, and Steelhouse Omaha. Check current routes, schedules, and fares through OMetro before your visit.
How do I get here from the airport?
Eppley Airfield (OMA) is roughly a 10–15 minute ride from the downtown venue cluster by car or rideshare.
How far apart are the venues?
Holland, Tenaska, and Steelhouse are clustered downtown and easily walkable. Accessible walking routes are mapped in the Day-of App.
How is downtown construction affecting traffic and arrival times?
Ongoing road construction and event-related street closures may affect traffic in downtown Omaha. We recommend allowing extra travel time and using a live navigation app such as Waze, Google Maps, or Apple Maps for the most current routing. Additional traffic and closure updates will be shared closer to the event.

06 Venue Rules: What to Bring

What items are prohibited inside the venues?
Because the festival and show are held inside Omaha Performing Arts venues, the venue's restricted-items list applies. Prohibited items include outside food or drink, water bottles, backpacks, bags larger than 14" x 14" x 6", cameras and recording devices, flags, banners or signs, laptops, weapons of any kind (including lawfully concealed firearms), laser pointers, hard coolers, sealed packages, noise-making devices (bells, whistles, horns), illegal drugs, selfie sticks and telescopic devices, animals other than service animals, unauthorized promotional materials, drones, hoverboards, and anything else deemed inappropriate or dangerous by Omaha Performing Arts security.
What is the bag policy for the festival and show?
The bag policy differs by venue. Steelhouse Omaha has a clear bag policy: only clear plastic or vinyl bags up to 12" x 6" x 12", or small clutch bags up to approximately 4.5" x 6.5", are allowed. A bag check is available beside the box office for $10. At the Holland Center, clear bags are not required, but your bag may be inspected at security and must be no larger than 14" x 14" x 6". No backpacks are allowed at either venue. Since the daytime festival is at the Holland Center and the evening show is at Steelhouse, plan for the stricter clear-bag rule if you're staying for the show.
Can I bring a backpack or large tote?
Backpacks are not permitted at either venue. Bags must stay within the size limits above — 14" x 14" x 6" at the Holland Center, and the smaller clear-bag limit at Steelhouse. If you have a medical or caregiving need, please contact us in advance so we can help you plan accordingly.
Can I bring an outdoor chair or picnic blanket into the festival?
If you brought a lawn chair or blanket to watch the parade, plan to store it before heading into the festival. The festival is held indoors, and outdoor chairs, blankets, and similar items cannot be brought inside. We recommend leaving them in your vehicle, as there is no check area for large personal items.
Can I bring an umbrella or rain poncho?
The parade happens rain or shine, so planning ahead for weather is a good idea. A personal umbrella, poncho, or packable raincoat is welcome and folds down small enough to fit in a permitted bag. Pop-up canopies and sun tents are not permitted along the parade route or inside the venues, so leave those at home.
Is outside food or drink allowed inside the venues?
No. Outside food and drink, including water bottles, are on the venue's restricted list. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase inside by credit or debit card — the venues are cashless, and you can convert cash to a Visa ReadyCARD for free on-site.
Can I bring a personal water bottle?
Water bottles are currently on the venue's restricted-items list. Plan to purchase beverages inside. Beverages are available for purchase at concession areas inside the venues.
Can I bring handheld signs, posters, or Pride flags?
More info coming soon  We are confirming with Omaha Performing Arts what is permitted for the Pride event specifically. Check back here or on our social channels for an update before the event.
Are weapons or self-defense items permitted, even with a permit?
No. Weapons of any kind are not permitted at the event, including firearms, knives, and self-defense items. A concealed carry permit does not create an exception. The only exception is on-duty law enforcement officers. These events are held inside Omaha Performing Arts venues, which set their own security policies prohibiting weapons on the premises regardless of permit status. By entering, all attendees agree to venue screening procedures, and anyone arriving with a prohibited item will be asked to remove it from the premises before entering.
What is the weather or rain policy?
Because the festival and show are held indoors, those events are protected from weather. The outdoor parade is the weather-dependent portion of the weekend. Updates about any weather-related changes will be shared on our website, social channels, and the Day-of App. All ticket sales are final and non-refundable.

07 Accessibility & Care

Is the event wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The festival and evening show are held inside Omaha Performing Arts venues, which are fully wheelchair accessible. The Holland Center has wheelchair and scooter accessible seating, accessible restrooms on every level, and accessible stages. Courtesy wheelchairs can be checked out at the Holland Center's Welcome Center with a valid ID. At Steelhouse Omaha, wheelchair access is available at all entrances and to all levels, with wheelchair-accessible stalls in every public restroom. Steelhouse does not provide courtesy wheelchairs.
Who is the event for?
LGBTQIA+ people, families, friends, neighbors, and allies — welcoming across identities, ages, backgrounds, abilities, and lived experiences.
Are there sensory considerations I should know about?
Expect amplified sound near stages and bright lighting during shows. The Holland Center keeps sensory kits and noise-canceling headphones available to check out at the Welcome Center with a valid ID. A quiet space will be available for anyone who needs a break — look for it on the Day-of App map.
Are there gender-neutral restrooms?
More info coming soon  The venues provide standard public restrooms along with companion restrooms and lactation rooms. We are confirming with Omaha Performing Arts what restroom options will be designated for the Pride event. We'll update this answer as soon as that's confirmed.
Will ASL interpreters be present at performances?
Yes. Heartland Pride provides professional ASL interpreters at all three of our main events: Friday's Youth Pride, the daytime festival near the stage, and the evening show at Steelhouse. Interpretation will be available on-site — you won't need to request it in advance for these performances. If you have a specific accessibility need beyond stage interpretation, please reach out ahead of time so we can plan for it.
Is there an accessible viewing area for live performances?
Yes. For the indoor evening show, Steelhouse offers wheelchair and companion seating on all levels, plus limited-mobility seats in the balcony. Notify staff on arrival for accommodations. The Holland Center offers wheelchair and scooter accessible seating where you can remain in your device or transfer to a seat.
How do I request specific accessibility accommodations in advance?
For accommodations tied to the venues or the evening show — such as ASL, audio description, or captioning — contact the Ticket Omaha box office at 402.345.0606 or [email protected] at least two weeks before the event. For general accessibility questions about Heartland Pride, reach out through our contact page.
Are real service animals allowed? What about pets or emotional support animals?
Service animals are welcome inside the venues. Permitted service animals include service dogs and miniature horses, which must remain on a leash or in a harness. Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted inside the venues under the ADA and Nebraska law. If you're bringing a service animal to the evening show, it helps to notify Ticket Omaha when purchasing so they can identify suitable seating.
Where can I find shade, cooling zones, or covered seating?
One of the benefits of holding the festival and evening show indoors is the climate control, which offers a comfortable, air-conditioned space to recharge between activities. The parade is the outdoor portion, so plan ahead: bring sun protection, water, and light breathable clothing, and know that the air-conditioned festival is waiting just inside once the parade wraps.

08 Food & Drinks

Will there be food and drinks available for purchase?
Yes. Because the festival and show are held inside Omaha Performing Arts venues, food and beverage service is provided and staffed by Omaha Performing Arts. Snacks and beverages are available at the venues' concession areas, and purchased concessions are allowed into the hall. This keeps service consistent and lets us focus the festival floor on our 200+ community vendors, artisans, and organizations.
What payment methods are accepted for food and drinks?
Omaha Performing Arts venues are cashless. Concessions are paid for by credit or debit card only. You can convert cash to a Visa ReadyCARD for free on-site. Apple Pay and similar digital wallets are commonly accepted at card readers.
Will alcohol be sold at the event?
Yes. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase by guests 21 and older, served by Omaha Performing Arts under their liquor license. Valid, current photo identification is required. Omaha Performing Arts reserves the right to refuse service to anyone who cannot provide valid ID or who appears intoxicated. For VIP All Access guests, there is a dedicated VIP bar at the Steelhouse evening show with shorter lines. Drinks at the VIP bar are still purchased separately and are not complimentary, but VIP guests do receive complimentary snacks in the VIP area.
What ID is required to purchase alcohol?
Guests must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol. Under Nebraska law, accepted forms of identification include a valid driver's or operator's license, state identification card, military identification card, alien registration card, passport, or tribal enrollment card. School or work IDs are not accepted as primary proof of age. We recommend bringing a current, government-issued photo ID if you plan to purchase alcohol.
Where can I carry alcoholic drinks inside the venues?
More info coming soon  Alcohol service rules are governed by Omaha Performing Arts' liquor license and venue policy. We are confirming the specifics of where drinks may be carried and consumed at the festival and show, and will update this answer before the event. Alcohol cannot leave the licensed premises.

09 Safety & Conduct

What security measures are in place at the gates?
All guests pass through security screening on entry. Omaha Performing Arts uses express security scanners designed to be touchless, so you generally won't need to empty your pockets or bag. Bags may be inspected at entry, and bag-size rules apply depending on the venue. We recommend arriving early to allow time to get through security, especially before the start of the evening show.
What is Heartland Pride's code of conduct?

Heartland Pride is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other identity. By attending, all guests agree to:

  • Treat fellow attendees, performers, volunteers, staff, and vendors with respect and dignity.
  • Refrain from harassment, discrimination, threats, intimidation, or violence of any kind.
  • Follow the directions of event staff, volunteers, security, and venue personnel.
  • Comply with all venue policies and applicable laws.
  • Help keep the event family-friendly and affirming for guests of all ages.

Heartland Pride and venue staff reserve the right to refuse entry to, or remove, anyone whose behavior is unsafe, harassing, discriminatory, or disruptive to the event or its welcoming spirit, without refund.

What is the policy on harassment, discrimination, or protestors?

Heartland Pride does not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. If you experience or witness harassment, please find a Heartland Pride volunteer, event staff member, or security personnel right away, and we will respond promptly. Anyone engaging in harassing, threatening, or discriminatory behavior may be removed from the event without refund and, where appropriate, reported to law enforcement.

Regarding demonstrators: public sidewalks and streets are open to the public, and people outside the event may choose to express differing views in those spaces, which is their legal right. For your comfort and safety, we ask attendees not to engage with protestors. Instead, please alert a volunteer, staff member, or security, who can involve law enforcement if anyone crosses the line into harassment, threats, or blocking access. Our security and volunteer teams are here so you can focus on celebrating.

What is the smoking and vaping policy?
Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the venues. Omaha Performing Arts prohibits smoking, including e-cigarettes, inside its buildings. If you smoke outdoors, please be mindful of families and crowds. Details on any designated outdoor smoking areas will be posted in the Day-of App.
Where is first aid located?
First-aid stations will be staffed at each venue. Specific locations will be pinned on the Day-of App map closer to the event. In any medical emergency, call 911.
Where is lost and found?
For the indoor venues, Omaha Performing Arts handles lost and found. During an event, check the House Manager's Desk or Welcome Center, or ask a staff member. After the event, contact the venue security desk at 402.661.8555 to ask whether your item was turned in. If you find an item that isn't yours, please bring it to the Welcome Center, House Manager's Desk, or a staff member.
What should I do if I lose my group or get separated?
At the indoor venues, contact the nearest Heartland Pride volunteer, security, or venue staff member right away. We recommend agreeing on a meeting point with your group when you arrive. For families, taking a quick photo of your child that day so you can show staff exactly who you're looking for is always a smart idea. Along the parade route, find a uniformed security team member or Heartland Pride volunteer for assistance.
What if there's an emergency?
In an emergency, call 911 and notify the nearest staff member or volunteer. Info booths can reach event safety leads directly.

10 Community & Connect

Can I take personal photos and videos?
Personal photos and videos are welcome, and we love seeing the celebration shared. Because Pride is a space where people deserve to feel safe, please be respectful and mindful when taking photos. These are public events, so attendees can generally expect that photos may be taken around them, but be considerate: if someone would prefer not to be photographed or filmed, honor that. Not everyone is publicly out, and respecting each other's privacy is part of what keeps Pride welcoming for all. At the indoor evening show, recording during performances may be restricted under venue policy.
Will I be photographed by official event photographers?
Yes. Heartland Pride has official photographers and videographers at our events, particularly at the parade, capturing the day for promotional and historical use. By attending, you may appear in event photos or video that Heartland Pride uses across its website, social media, and promotional materials. If you'd prefer not to be photographed by our official team, let the photographer know or speak with a volunteer or staff member.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
Heartland Pride is powered by volunteers. Volunteer roles range from event setup and registration to wayfinding, hospitality, and day-of support. To get involved, reach out through our contact page or ask about volunteer opportunities at the event.
How can my business become a vendor or exhibitor?
Vendor and exhibitor applications are handled through our Eventeny portal. With our new festival space, spots may be limited, so we encourage businesses and organizations to apply early.
How can my company become a corporate sponsor?
Sponsorship details and packages are available at heartlandpride.org/2026-sponsorship-opportunities. Sponsorships help fund the parade, festival, and show, and support Heartland Pride's community work, including its scholarship program and grants to local LGBTQ+ groups.
How can I make a financial donation?
You can donate directly through our website at heartlandpride.org/donate, or get in touch through our sponsorship page. Heartland Pride operates as United in Pride, DBA Heartland Pride, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Who do I contact with questions not answered here?
Reach out anytime through our contact page. You can also connect with us through our official social media channels.
Where is the best place to find real-time updates or weather changes?
For day-of updates, including any schedule or weather changes, check our website at heartlandpride.org, the Heartland Pride Day-of App, and our social media channels. We recommend following our socials before the event so important updates reach you in real time.
What are Heartland Pride's official social media channels?

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