The Pageant is the headline show for Friday night.

After years of planning and several attempts, pride has found a home in central Wisconsin.

In July of 2019, after lengthy debate, the Marathon County Board voted to declare June as Pride Month. Shortly after, planning began for a June 2020 pride event. Then covid 19 put an end to large scale events being safely held.

Not wanting to lose the good will or momentum, a small pride event was held on June 20th, 2020. The first Central Wisconsin Pride took place at the Motorama Events Grounds east of Wausau. The size was strictly limited and safety protocols were in place. A variety of stage events and activities filled the afternoon and evening. Good, safe family fun was enjoyed by all.

In 2021, Central Wisconsin Pride was expanded to a 2 day event, including the crowning of Mr. and Miss CWPride on Friday. Over 350 people camped for the weekend. Many more came for the family shows on Saturday. The event was a huge success and brought people from many different backgrounds and cultures together.

In 2022, the festival was expanded to 3 full days with the addition of a Sunday Champagne Brunch, a tubing trip down the Eau Claire River and a Saturday night karaoke party.

For 2023, the Pride Festival added an early move-in day on Thursday for campers and vendors to get set up. That evening, a pot-luck social was held in the on-site MotorSports Bar. A big hit was the addition of Drag Queen Bingo Saturday morning.

Central Wisconsin Pride is now an annual event held at the Motorama Events Grounds. We enjoy a full weekend of fun and acceptance. This event not only celebrates the LGBTQ+ community but welcomes other cultures and groups. We hope to encourage a sense of togetherness with this annual event.

The schedule includes stage shows, vendors, dance party, camping and more. The Central Wisconsin Pride always takes place on the 3rd weekend in June. If you would like to display, vend, volunteer or sponsor, visit Central Wisconsin Pride on Facebook or go to the “Forms & Tickets” page on this website.