Why PrideFest?

Why is the City sponsoring PrideFest?

PrideFest, organized by the St. Charles Equity & Inclusion Commission, is intended to be appropriate for all ages and aims to create a welcoming space where all residents feel included and respected. Its purpose is not to exclude or alienate anyone, but rather to support a sense of belonging for members of our community who wish to participate. One of the City’s guiding principles in our strategic plan is to create an inclusive community where all feel welcome. Inclusionary events like PrideFest are one way we work toward that goal. We respect that community members have a range of perspectives and appreciate engagement and all viewpoints.

PrideFest is hosted and staffed by the volunteer members of the St. Charles Equity and Inclusion Commission, and other volunteers. The City’s involvement in the event is similar to its support of other community events hosted by local partners.

Why does the City recognize Pride Month with a proclamation?

The City regularly recognizes federal observance days and months, national holidays, and special community recognitions. Pride Month is just one of many. In 2025, the City issued 25 proclamations honoring military service and veterans organizations, celebrating resident milestones such as 100th birthdays, recognizing municipal employees and public service professions, acknowledging federal observance months including Women's History Month, federal holidays such as Juneteenth, promoting health and safety awareness initiatives, and supporting community-focused causes such as literacy, the arts, kindness, and the National Day of Prayer. In addition, our community events throughout the year, including Arbor Day, the St. Patrick’s Parade and Electric Christmas Parade, are cherished local traditions.

When and where will the Pride Flag be flown?

The Pride flag will be raised at 8 a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026, throughout the month of June on the secondary flagpole, separate from the American flagpole, and flown beneath the City of St. Charles flag in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code — federal guidelines governing how the American flag should be displayed, handled and respected.

Why is the City raising a Pride flag when other observances don’t receive a flag raising?

The Pride flag raising is part of a city tradition established in 2022. Since its adoption, the observance has received unanimous support from City Council.