After the cancellation of the annual Kewanee 2025 Pride Fest left many in the community disheartened, two local residents decided to take matters into their own hands.

Jeanette Gibson and Tamera Stoner are organizing a Pride Picnic at Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area on Saturday, July 5, from 5 to 9 p.m. The event will take place at the Chief Senachewine Shelter and is open to the public. Attendees are invited to wear their pride gear.

“After Pride Fest was canceled, people kept saying someone should do something,” Gibson said. “Tamara mentioned a picnic, and I happened to already have this shelter reserved.”

Both women agreed it felt like it was meant to be.

MORE: Kewanee Pride Fest canceled for 2025, organizers hope for comeback next year

The family-friendly event promises a variety of activities, including outdoor games like cornhole, horseshoes, ladder ball, badminton and volleyball. Attendees can also enjoy face painting, board games, music and a photo op area with Pride-themed props.

One highlight of the evening will be the crowning of “Rainbow Royalty,” a celebratory moment for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages, a dish to share and a lawn chair or blanket. Meat for the picnic will be provided by the organizers.

“We wanted to make sure our community had an event where they could celebrate Pride,” Stoner said.

The Pride Picnic will offer a grassroots alternative to the canceled festival—and a way for the community to celebrate pride. More information can be found on the event Facebook Page.

*** This copy was edited to correct the date of the event, which will take place on Saturday, July 5, not Friday.