2026 Theme Pride is a Protest

Youth Pride & Family Night · Friday, July 17, 2026

Pride starts
with the kids.

A youth and family celebration that kicks off Pride weekend — the night before the festival, parade, and show. Bring the whole family.

Date
Friday
July 17, 2026
Event
Youth Pride & Family Night
Time
From 5:00 PM
Location
Holland / Tenaska cluster
Nina West, headlining Heartland Youth Pride 2026

Headlining Youth Pride

Nina West

We're thrilled to welcome Nina West to headline Youth Pride & Family Night. A beloved performer, children's entertainer, and longtime advocate for LGBTQIA+ youth, Nina brings joy, heart, and a whole lot of sparkle to kick off Pride weekend.

What it is

A celebration for youth and families that opens the weekend.

Youth Pride & Family Night is a warm, welcoming kickoff the evening before the main festival — a chance for younger members of our community and their families to gather, celebrate, and feel at home before the big day.

Who it's for

Youth and families — and the people who love them.

Built for young people and their families, friends, and allies. A welcoming space where the next generation of our community can show up, be celebrated, and feel proud of who they are.

A safe, joyful start

You're welcome here — exactly as you are.

Welcoming across identities, ages, backgrounds, abilities, and lived experiences. Families come as they are, and leave knowing they belong.

We're here to help

Have a question? We'd love to hear from you.

Browse our FAQs or reach out anytime — our team is happy to help you and your family plan for the night.

For parents & guardians

Plan the night with confidence.

Whether you're dropping off or staying for the evening, we want you to feel completely at ease.

  • Drop-off or stay — both are welcome for the evening.
  • Accessibility — gender-neutral restrooms, ADA access, and quiet space.
  • Contact — questions ahead of time are always welcome.
Contact the youth team