MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- PrideFest, Wisconsin's largest LGBTQ+ event announced its return to Henry Maier Festival Park June 2-4. 

The 2022 festival marks the 25th PrideFest held in June, and kicks off Milwaukee's festival season. 

“I couldn’t be happier to make this announcement,” said Wes Shaver, President, Milwaukee Pride, Inc. “It’s time to push forward and bring back the events and community functions that make Milwaukee so special; celebrating people is something this city does better than anywhere else…and it’s an honor to once again kick off festival season. Let’s get back to strengthening our social fabric and raising a glass together!” he added.

According to a news release, PrideFest will be different this June; The revamped and imagined footprint of the festival grounds includes new stages, food vendor buildings, an expanded Health & Wellness area, children’s and family programing and more. The festival will use primarily the north part of the park spanning from the Midgate all the way north, offering new experiences for the festival guest. As always, PrideFest will include a fireworks display.

Festival organizers are planning a full lineup of "Throwback Thursday" themed acts and promotions to honor the event's past and 1996 move to the park. 

To support local food pantries, guests can bring 4 canned, non-perishable food items for admission on Thursday from 4-6pm (The 4 cans is representative of the $4 gate admission to the 1996 festival). From 4-8pm, guests 21+ older can enjoy Happy Hour that includes 1996 pricing for beer, wine, cocktails, and soda. The evening’s program will feature a dynamic and energetic line up of 90’s music along with drag shows, entertainers, DJs and more.

Organizers will announce acts, programming, and online ticket sales soon.