What's Happening?

Springfield IL (May 31, 2026) That time of the year we all look forward to arrives June 1^st with the commencement of Pride Month.  For anyone who says they can’t find some place to go to celebrate, you’re simply not looking.  For our first week of June, we have the following:

On June 3^rd, Bloom Wine Bar & Florals will be holding a Pride Floral Arranging class at 6:30 at their place at 2 S Old State Capitol Plaza in downtown Springfield.  Tickets are $55.00 and you are given a rainbow ceramic pot, a selection of rainbow florals, a complimentary glass of wine, cocktail, or mocktail to sip while you arrange, and a step-by-step instruction.  Space is limited so buy your tickets ASAP by going to CORAL’s webpage at www.springfieldcoral.org and go to our calendar for the registration address.

Also on June 3^rd, the NoH8 campaign comes back to Springfield for another photo shoot.  They will be at the Phoenix Center’s location at 120 E Scarritt from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.  No registration is required as walk-ins are welcome.  Solo shoots are $40.00 while couple shoots are $25.00 per person.  Most people tend to arrive before the photo shoot begins, but as long as someone has lined up by the advertised end time for the photo shoot, they should be guaranteed a chance to pose.

Once you arrive, the next steps are easy!1. Fill-out one numbered model release for each person.2. Process your payment.3. Trade your processed model release for duct tape!4. Apply a NOH8 temporary tattoo for your photo.

NOH8 Co-Founder Adam Bouska will photograph roughly 10 frames per person. One frame will be selected/edited by Adam and made available within approximately six weeks (timeline subject to change).

On June 6^th, another Pridefest event takes place as Logan County Pride takes over downtown Lincoln for their sixth year of celebrating.  From 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. you will find vendors, food, and all kinds of entertainment while enjoying the outdoors.  As in year’s past, there will be a facial hair and pet costume contest as well.  Beginning at 8:30 p.m. the Pride Show begins when Sharon Sharealike and Diamond Entertainment will take over the stage with a talented group of drag performers. Make the short trip North and join the festivities.

Earlier on June 6^th, Fifth Street Renaissance/SARA Center will be holding a Shred Event/Food Drive from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at their location at 1345 N 5^th Street.  You can bring up to 7 bags of items to shred and a monetary or non-perishable food donation for their food pantry