Third annual Tri-Lakes Pride event set for June 30

SARANAC LAKE | The Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance is hosting its third annual LGBTQI+ Pride event at Riverside Park in Saranac Lake on Sunday, June 30, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The free event welcomes members of the LGBTQI+ community from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake and neighboring communities, along with their families, friends, supportive organizations, businesses and other allies. According to Kelly Metzgar, co-founder and executive director of the Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance, the event has become incredibly popular in Saranac Lake. "Last year, we welcomed so many participants and sponsors - and the number of vendors and exhibitors was overwhelming. It was an incredible day and we are set to improve on that this year," she said. "The event, the community's involvement, local business support, the spontaneity of certain aspects of last year's event - it was wonderful - everyone had so much fun. Our lively, creative, decidedly different community really provides a beautiful backdrop." According to organizers, one of the most popular elements of the celebration is a parade, leading attendees through downtown Saranac Lake to Riverside Park. The parade begins at 12 p.m. near the Saranac Lake Post Office, traveling along Broadway and Main Street toward the park. The day will also feature a fashion show, presented by the Saranac Lake Youth Center in collaboration with Tori Vasquez, formerly of Main St. Exchange consignment store. Speakers, exhibits, music, vendors and performers will be on-hand throughout the afternoon. The event is also expected to welcome many of the region's elected officials. "The LGBTQI+ community is incredibly inclusive; quite literally, we hope that everyone comes out to celebrate with us," said Metzgar. "We celebrate the LGBTQI+ community, but we also celebrate its allies. Most importantly, we celebrate diversity and, by definition, that means that we celebrate absolutely everyone." The event has attracted a number of sponsorships from local businesses and a diverse slate of organizations that provide various resources, information and support for local community members. Event organizers are hoping to add more businesses and sponsors over the next couple weeks. "We have plenty of space and we welcome all," said Metzgar. "Please reach out if your organization is interested in taking part." The all-volunteer event organizers are encouraging others to become involved, as a great deal of work still needs to be done. Those interested in volunteering should visit the Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance Facebook page for additional information about the Pride event, including sponsorship or volunteer opportunities: facebook.com/adkncga or email: ancga_prideparade@outlook.com. Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance is also partnering with Bitters and Bones, 65 Broadway in Saranac Lake, to host a LGBTQI+ mixer event on Tuesday, June 25, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Other events will be announced as dates are finalized.

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Third annual Tri-Lakes Pride event set for June 30

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