CLEVELAND — Thousands gathered downtown Saturday morning for the 11th annual Pride in the CLE festival, kicking off Pride Month in the city.
The event, organized by the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland, took place in Public Square with a day filled with members of the LGBTQ+ community, organizations and lots of fun.
One of the main attractions includes the Pride March, where thousands came together to demonstrate "unity, pride and resilience," according to the organization.
The march was a protest, and although it was met with several counterprotesters, the small groups were outnumbered by the marchers.
News 5's Elizabeth VanMetre spoke to Morgan Lewis, an advocacy organizer for the event, who said Saturday was more than a march.
"It shows that, Cleveland, we're stronger and better together. With all of us together, it shows that we can not be broken and we are strong. We are better as a unit for sure," Lewis said.
Festival goers were able to enjoy all of the following throughout the event:
- Live entertainment on the Main Stage and Speak Out Stage
- Community exhibitors and resource organizations
- Food trucks and local vendors
- Youth & Family Fun Zone
- Health & Wellness Village
- Artisan Alley
- Official Pride merchandise
- Drink Garden featuring alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Accessibility resources and support services
The festival stretched from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and was opened up with words from Mayor Justin Bibb.
