Thousands gather for Stark County Pride in Canton, Ohio

Here’s some of what we saw at the 5th annual festival.

By Josie Carpenter-Lewis ● Community, Galleries, Pride ● June 13, 2026

With clear skies above, thousands of participants gathered in downtown Canton on Saturday for the 5th annual Stark County Pride.

The festival featured a march, food trucks and over 100 tables with representation from LGBTQ+ nonprofits and local businesses. Pride-goers were also treated to a robust entertainment line-up featuring local bands, dj’s and drag performers including Kardi Redd Diamond, Jade X, Monica Mod and Onya Nurve, winner of season 17 of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Organizers stressed the importance of Pride celebrations.

“Pride saves lives,” said Jonathan Becker, entertainment chair for the festival. “Pride is the best way for us to be visible, to protest and to live as loudly as possible with joy and with laughter.”

Here is some of what we saw at Stark County Pride. 🔥

Author

Josie Carpenter-Lewis

Josie Carpenter-Lewis (she/her) is a rising senior at the University of Dayton, where she is majoring in English with a minor in Sociology. During the school year, Josie works at her campus libraries and has written for the Library Blogs. Now, Josie intends to combine her love of reading and writing with her passion for social justice, both in her hometown, Cleveland, and the greater Ohio area.

Author

Josie Carpenter-Lewis

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