The annual Bend Summer Pride event is returning to a grassroots community gathering. It’s unclear what to expect. Unlike years past, this year is a “self-organized” event. A post on the Bend Pride web page says: “We know this looks a little different from years past, and we want to be upfront about that. The world is a lot right now — costs are up, bandwidth is down, and our small volunteer-driven team has been doing a lot of reflecting on what Pride really means to us. What we kept coming back to was this: the magic of Pride has never been the production. It’s always been you. So this year, we’re handing the celebration back to the community and trusting that what you’ll create together is something pretty special.”
The community is encouraged to bring blankets, acoustic sets, lawn games and anything that creates spontaneous joy. There is no program. It’s about togetherness.
Organizers say there will still be vendors, a youth area entertainment and food trucks. The vendor area will be much smaller than in the past with priority given to Central Oregon artists and LGBTQIA+ community groups, nonprofits and mutual aid groups doing outreach and offering free resources. There are expected to be a few food carts but no beverage garden.
Bend Pride Inc. is run by three volunteers. They are seeking new volunteers willing to take on a larger role in shaping future summer pride events. In a statement online, the volunteers say, “We’re not going anywhere. We’re being thoughtful about how we grow — and we’re committed to letting this event evolve over the years based on what you tell us you need.”
For those wanting to attend this year, the free celebration is set for Saturday, June 6 from noon to 3pm in Drake Park.
This article appears in the Source May 28, 2026.
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