Front Royal Pride

FRPride is a Northern Shenandoah Valley LGBTQ+ group formed in early 2023 that hosts events through the year. Its 2026 Pride gathering is on October 10 on Main Street in Front Royal during the town's Festival of Leaves.

FRPride was founded in early 2023 by three friends looking for community in their hometown. It is now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on education, support and empowerment for LGBTQ+ people in Front Royal and the surrounding Shenandoah Valley, and it is run by a board of directors with help from volunteers and supporters.

The group held the first Pride event in Front Royal's history on July 27, 2024, after months of work by first-time organizers. Some objections were expected, but turnout far exceeded what the organizers had hoped for. Sales of FRPride T-shirts, offered in adult and child sizes, help pay for the annual festival.

Izzy France, a longtime Front Royal resident, is the group's founder and president and oversees the team, working with the board, volunteers and local businesses. Vice President Rae, originally from Stephens City, got involved through the Pride Club at Laurel Ridge Community College and now manages relationships with local businesses and organizations, with a focus on safety and comfort. Secretary Sarah France is a registered nurse and Izzy's mother. FRPride holds events throughout the year, sends a monthly newsletter and welcomes new volunteers, business partners and sponsors.

Pride events celebrate LGBTQ+ people and mark the Stonewall uprising of June 1969. Most combine a parade or march with a festival of performers, community groups, vendors and food.

Front Royal Pride has included festival booth and community gathering.

The next edition is October 10, 2026. It usually falls october, alongside the Festival of Leaves.