For nearly a decade, the Fayetteville Pride Festival has been a cornerstone of the city’s LGBTQ+ calendar—an annual gathering that brings together thousands to celebrate diversity, acceptance and the ongoing fight for equality. But this year, Fayetteville Pride is raising the bar.
Organizers have announced that the 2025 Pride Festival, scheduled for Saturday, June 21, will take place at a brand-new venue: the spacious, climate-controlled Crown Complex.
“We listened to the community,” said Festival Director Brian Adam Kline. “People wanted a festival that reflected not only who we are, but where we’re going—a space that makes everyone feel safe, seen, celebrated and cooled off. Late June is hot as hell. With the Crown Expo Center, we’re able to do all that and more.”
The decision to move indoors, organizers say, was fueled by feedback from previous attendees who cited June’s heat and unpredictable weather as barriers to participation. By shifting the festival to a large indoor venue, the Pride team hopes to provide a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for all—especially families with young children, older adults and those with disabilities. All safety measures and policies for the Crown Complex can be found on their website. https://www.crowncomplexnc.com/visit/venue-policies
Bigger Venue, Longer Hours, and Star Power
This year’s festival promises to be bigger, brighter and bolder. Not only will it feature extended hours—from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.—but it will also include headlining performances by Jean-Belle Bleu and Kyng Bea, two powerhouse entertainers known for captivating crowds across North Carolina and beyond.
Joining them on the main stage are a stunning lineup of local and regional performers: BIG MUVAA, Alda Smoke, Chastity Nichols, McKenzie O’Bishop, Tatianna Mathews and Morgan Richards. From fierce drag to soulful vocals and electrifying dance, these artists promise to bring the energy and artistry that Pride is known for. Fayetteville PRIDE’s President and Entertainment Director Krystal Maddox has curated a lineup that reflects the diversity, talent and brilliance of Fayetteville’s LGBTQ+ community.
More Than Just Entertainment
While the stage will be a major attraction, the festival’s mission goes deeper. Fayetteville Pride organizers are focused on making this event one that uplifts, educates and connects. Educational booths will return this year, led by local leaders, advocates and professionals. Topics will range from LGBTQ+ history and civil rights to mental health resources, youth support and healthcare access.
The festival will also include designated Kids and Teen Zones provided by Xscape Factor-Escape Rooms and Array Magazine, affirming areas where young attendees can feel safe, express themselves and join in the celebration through age-appropriate games, crafts and activities.
Other highlights will include the Community Arts table, where guests can participate in a collaborative art project, a bustling Craft and Goods marketplace, featuring handmade items from local artists and small businesses. This year the festival is excited to have a wide variety of food and beverage vendors serving cupcakes, mini cake loaves, chocolate dipped treats, toffee, funnel cakes, freeze dried candy, cotton candy, donuts, brownie bites, gyros, sausages, steak and cheese, blooming onions, nachos, turkey legs, corn dogs, fresh cut fries, gourmet soul food, pizza, pierogies, stromboli, chicken salad sandwiches, breakfast favorites, spring cobb salad, grits bowl, fried egg & bacon sandwiches, vegan patty melts with lemonade, slushes and other drinks to name a few. The Crown Expo Center will be serving favorite event snacks, including adult beverages served in controlled areas for those 21+, along with friendly security and police presence, to ensure safety and peace of mind for all.
Maddox emphasized that these changes are not just cosmetic—they are part of a deeper commitment to community care.
“I want the LGBTQ+ community and our allies to know that we are listening,” Maddox said. “The changes in 2025 reflect our values. Your safety, your comfort, your joy—it all matters. Now more than ever, we must come together and support one another.”
One of the biggest updates in 2025 is the addition of alcoholic drinks for adults. Thanks to the Crown Expo Center’s infrastructure and licensing, attendees 21 and over will be able to enjoy an adult beverage in clearly marked areas.
Kline stressed that this change enhances the festival’s social experience without compromising its inclusive, family-friendly nature.
“We’ve created spaces for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a drink with friends, watching a show or bringing your kids for crafts and games—there’s something here for you.”
Organizers encourage community members, allies, businesses and artists to get involved. Sponsorship packages are still available. Go to Fayetteville PRIDE’s website for more information at fayettevillepride.org.
“Fayetteville Pride has always been about community,” said Maddox. “Every part of this festival is built by and for the people who live here. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime supporter, you are welcome and celebrated.”
Pride with Purpose
Founded as a grassroots celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in southeastern North Carolina, Fayetteville Pride has grown into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to foster equality, visibility and inclusion year-round. While the annual festival is the organization’s flagship event, its work extends into education, outreach, advocacy and support.
“Pride isn’t just a party—it’s a statement, a free space, a movement,” Kline said. “It’s about standing up, showing up and celebrating who we are. This year, we’re building something bigger—not just a better festival, but a stronger community.”
Admission to the festival is free. For more information, updates or to get involved, visit www.fayettevillepride.org or contact contact@fayettevillepride.org. The festival's full program is exclusively digital and will be available at Fayetteville PRIDE’s Facebook, Instagram and website the week of the festival.

(Poster design by James Throssel)