Shenandoah Valley Pride Festival

The Shenandoah Valley Pride Festival is held at Turner Pavilion in downtown Harrisonburg by the Shenandoah Valley Pride Alliance. The 2026 festival on Sunday, September 20 featured singer-songwriter Shelly Fairchild and drag performer Athena Dion.

The Shenandoah Valley Pride Alliance brings together entertainers, businesses, nonprofits, faith communities and individuals to celebrate, support and advocate for LGBTQ+ people across the Valley. Its mission focuses on equality, safe spaces and representation, pursued through advocacy, education, events and resources.

The festival has grown to more than 5,000 attendees, over 70 vendors and more than 20 performers, making it one of the region's larger Pride celebrations. The stage features drag artists, musicians, dancers and DJs from the Valley and beyond. Volunteers help with setup, guest assistance and vendor support, and vendor registration for the next year opens in December.

The alliance also presents the Miss Gay Harrisonburg Pageant, which marks its 30th year in October 2026 under the theme Crowned in Gold.

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.

Shenandoah Valley Pride Festival has included festival and live entertainment.

The organizer has not announced dates for 2027 yet. In 2026 it was held September 20, 2026. It usually falls third weekend of September.