What's Happening?

Springfield, IL (June 8, 2026) Only one week into Pride month, and the activities are still going strong.  For anyone hoping to find a way to celebrate your Pride, there are plenty for you to choose from this week and in the weeks to come.

For our bisexual members, the Phoenix Center has begun a support group just for you.  They meet on the second Tuesday of every month at their location at 120 E Scarritt, Springfield, at 6:00 p.m.

On June 11^th, Helping Hands will be holding a Summer Coffee Social at Pease’s at Bunn Gourmet from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m.  No agenda or information, unless you want it.  Just a little time to meet others and socialize.

On June 13^th, we things happening all day.

First, Juneteenth takes over Comer Cox Park.  At 10:00 a.m., the Unity parade begins the day.  CORAL has proudly walked in the parade for several years now and if you’re interested in joining us, simply show up at South Grand and MLK drive to grab a flag and take the stroll to Comer Cox Park.  At the park, you will find vendors, food, and merriment of all kinds.

If you’re more in tune with learning more about the LGBTQ history of Springfield, you might want to register for the “Walk of Pride” being put on by the Lincoln Library in downtown Springfield.  The walk begins at 10:15 a.m. and takes you all over the downtown area with explanations of special places along the way holding a proud history of LGBTQ memories.

Then, to end your day of celebration, consider joining CORAL for their 45^th year of Pride Picnic.  Held at the Shelter #4 at Lincoln Park from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., CORAL provides the picnic mainstays of fried chicken, potato salad, cole slaw, and beverages, and asks attendees to bring their favorite Summertime side dishes to share.  It’s a great way to meet new people and reconnecting with the old.

On June 14^th, if you’re not getting enough of those picnic favorites, you can make the trip to Bloomington for their annual event at Anderson Park, located at 503 E College in Normal from noon to 3:00 p.m.  This year Prairie Pride Coalition is partnering with the ISU Queer Coalition and PFLAG Bloomington-Normal to bring you a joint family-friendly Pride Picnic.  RSVP is not required and loved ones are welcome to attend. Food including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options will be provided from A to Z's Catering.

And that just might give you enough time to return to Springfield for CORAL’s monthly membership meeting at 4:00 p.m.  Meeting on the second Sunday of every month either by Zoom or in person at AgeLinc, CORAL welcomes all. 

Enjoy your week!