Lake Anne Plaza is set to host the seventh annual Reston Pride Festival this Saturday (June 1) from noon to 6 p.m.
This year’s theme, “SHINE,” is expected to offer a day of vibrant activities and entertainment, such as a dunk tank, drag artists, and a micro arts and craft fair, according to a press release. Reston-based engineering firm Leidos is sponsoring the event.
This year also marks the debut of the Reston Pride Human Library. Sponsored by Rejeuvenations Massage Therapy, the initiative aims to foster dialogues about diverse life experiences, per the release.
“The Human Library concept will have a rotating assortment of folks from the greater community available for festival attendees to sit with, listen to, and learn from with the opportunity for questions and answers,” a Reston Pride spokesperson explained. “…It gives people the opportunity to hear stories from people with lived experiences.”
Katja Attenshun, who was Miss Trans D.C. for the Trans USA National Pageantry, plans to serve as the Mistress of Ceremonies and perform several drag shows throughout the day.
The festival will also feature performances from local musicians, including rock trio Ammonite and pop singer Bryce Bowyn, as well as comedians Jen Kober and Jeffrey Jay, with support from the Reston Community Center.
More than 70 vendors, many from the LGBTQIA+ community, are expected to participate, offering a range of services and goods, including in health, faith, and real estate sectors.
The Reston Pride Festival is organized entirely by volunteers and remains free to the public.
