As soon as Brad Ahrens learned that Kewanee Pride Fest had been canceled-after getting over his initial disappointment- he decided to try to do something about it.

Last month, the organizers of the Kewanee Pride Fest, held for the last two years at Northeast Park, made an announcement on social media that due to the lack of volunteers, the festival would be canceled this year. It was then that Ahrens made plans.

“See a problem, fix it, I say. Any ground gained by the LGBTQ+ community shouldn’t be lost. The only people who shouldn’t smile are bigots. I fully expect Pride Fest will be back next year, bigger and stronger than ever. If people step up and volunteer like they said they would, it shouldn’t be anything less,” he said.

Ahrens, founder of Luigi Army, is organizing the Luigi Community Party to take the Pride Fest’s place this year. The elephant in the room, Ahrens said, is what’s the Luigi Army?

“As the second born twin, I’ve long since been associated with Luigi.”

A “Luigi,” Ahrens said, acknowledges the Constitution can not enforce itself.

“We must do it. We’re not afraid to speak against bullies or bigots, either. The Army part is simple to explain. All of us together, united,” he said, adding that there is strength in numbers. “If we’re together, we’re not powerless. I’ve always held that we can change anything. It’s our society, we make the rules, we can change them anytime.”

The pride party will be held on Saturday, June 14 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Northeast Park after the planned “No Kings” protest scheduled in Kewanee for that day.

Activities will include icebreaker games, kid’s games, creative contests, a superhero registry, fun challenges and singing games. Elvis Prseley will even make an appearance.

“Think less ‘vendors’ and more ‘sing-a-longs’ and games,” he said. “The plan is setting lawn chairs in a semi-circle for a ‘stage.’ We can make things up to do on the spot. If anyone wants to dress in drag and walk down the path, we’ll do it. Feel free to do improv or a puppet show.”

Ahrens said he’ll provide puppets just in case and the appearance by an Elvis Presley impersonator is planned. There is also a plan for a 175 rainbow-colored kazoo give-a-way.

Ahrens said at the moment, there’s a shortage of confirmed hosts to conduct the planned activities.

“I’m certain this will resolve itself,” he said. “I will point out there’s no corporate sponsors and no commercialism, which is as it really should be.”

Originally, he thought that if vendors wanted to set up a table they could do so, but the idea had to be dropped due to time and resource restrictions, he said. A permit might also be required to sell in the park, but he said if someone wants to display art or something similar, they should feel free to do so.

He is also seeking volunteers or ideas for the festival. Anyone with questions can join the Luigi Army Facebook Group or text him at 309-973-1076.

In addition, all instruments are welcome. Attendees can bring their own snacks and drinks and lawn chairs. Guests are asked to wear big hats, brightly colored ties and clothes or wear flashy capes.

“Just make it up!” Said Ahrens.