Welcome, friends, to the most colorful weekend of the year! From June 12 through June 15, 2025, Eureka Springs throws open its doors—and its hearts—for the Annual Eureka Springs Pride Festival. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a returning visitor, or making your first trip to this storybook Ozark town, get ready for four days of live music, laughter, a family-friendly Kids Zone, a dazzling Pride Parade, and plenty of opportunities to connect, celebrate, and feel absolutely welcome. And when the sun goes down on the festivities, your perfect retreat awaits just a short drive away at Eureka Sunset Cabins. Grab your rainbow shades, pack your dancing shoes, and let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the most of Pride in Eureka Springs.
What Is the Eureka Springs Pride Festival?
Eureka Springs has long been known for its artistic spirit, historic charm, and warm hospitality—and the Pride Festival is the ultimate expression of that inclusive ethos. From Thursday, June 12 through Sunday, June 15, the streets, squares, and stages of downtown transform into a vibrant hub of rainbow flags, live performances, family-friendly zones, and community pride.
Highlights at a Glance
- Opening Ceremonies (June 12): Kick off Pride weekend with a heartfelt welcome, local drag performers, and community leaders sharing words of celebration.
- Live Music All Over Town: From street corners to the Basin Park Auditorium, enjoy an eclectic mix of genres—pop, rock, disco, and of course, plenty of soulful tunes.
- Kids Zone: Face painting, crafts, balloon artists, and gentle storytime sessions ensure that children have as much fun as their grown-up pals.
- Pride Parade (June 14): Floats, marching bands, drag troupes, local businesses, and nonprofit organizations unite for a colorful procession down Spring Street.
- Special Guests: Catch headline acts and surprise appearances—keep an eye on the schedule for announcements!
- Community Corner: Local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, health organizations, and artisans set up booths so you can learn, connect, and support important causes.
- Crescent Hotel Rooftop Social: Sip signature Pride cocktails while watching the sunset over the Ozarks.
For every updated festival detail and full schedule, check the official event page: Eureka Springs Pride Festival – Visit Eureka Springs. You can also find ticket info and community partner listings on the Pride Alliance’s site: MidSouth Pride – Eureka Springs Pride 2025.
Why Eureka Springs Embraces Pride
Eureka Springs isn’t just a stop on the map—it’s a state of mind. Long celebrated for its progressive values, artistic community, and historic healing springs, this town has earned its reputation as a safe haven for folks of all backgrounds and identities.
- LGBTQ+ History & Culture: Eureka Springs was one of the first Southern towns to openly welcome LGBTQ+ visitors, and its local organizations champion equality year-round.
- Artistic Flair: Galleries, studios, and street murals reflect a spectrum of voices and perspectives, making art an integral part of Pride’s heartbeat.
- Natural Beauty: Winding streets, Victorian architecture, and lush forest trails create an idyllic backdrop for a weekend of self-expression and community.
- Local Allies: From shop owners to hoteliers, nearly every business in town takes Pride seriously—expect rainbow flags, Pride-themed menus, and plenty of supportive smiles.
Whether you’re here for the first time or you’ve been returning for years, you’ll feel that Eureka Springs Pride is less “festival” and more “family reunion with glitter.”
Live Music, Performers & Special Events
Music is the lifeblood of Pride, and Eureka Springs delivers an all-star lineup across multiple venues. Here’s a taste of what’s in store:
Basin Park Auditorium: Main Stage Magic
- Drag Show Kickoff (June 12, 8 pm): Local drag legends host the opening-night extravaganza—think dazzling costumes, lip-sync battles, and pure camp joy.
- Tig Notaro at the Auditorium (June 13, 7 pm): Award-winning comedian Tig Notaro brings her brand of heartfelt humor to the Pride stage. Tickets and details here: Tig Notaro at the Auditorium.
- Rainbow Rock Night (June 14, 9 pm): A closing-concert blowout featuring regional LGBTQ+ bands and surprise guests.
Street Stages & Pop-Up Performances
- Center Street Beats: Dancing in the streets with spinning DJs, saxophone solos, and pop-up dance lessons.
- Courtyard Cabaret: Acoustic singer-songwriters serenade festival-goers between sets.
- Late-Night Funk Party: Grotto Upstairs transforms into a neon playground—bring your best moves and flashy outfits.
Family-Friendly Fun
- Kids Zone (Daily 10 am–4 pm):
- Face painting with rainbow sparkles
- Craft stations to make Pride flags and allies badges
- Storytime featuring LGBTQ+ children’s books
- Bubble zones and foam parties
- Pride Parade (June 14, 2 pm):
- Parade route down Spring Street
- Community floats celebrating love, diversity, and inclusion
- Marching bands, dance troupes, convertible cars, and plenty of confetti
Community & Wellness
- Health & Resource Fair: Meet local nonprofits, mental health providers, and advocacy groups.
- Sunrise Yoga on Basin Park Lawn (June 15, 8 am): A gentle, all-abilities yoga session to start your day with mindful intention.
With so many stages and pop-ups, you’ll want a game plan. Grab the full map and schedule at the pavilion in Basin Park or download the Pride Festival app to bookmark must-see acts.
Why Eureka Sunset Cabins Is Your Pride Weekend HQ
After you’ve danced under the disco ball, cheered in the parade, and chewed through a stack of Pride-themed pancakes, you deserve a serene escape—and that’s exactly what Eureka Sunset Cabins delivers. Located just a 5–7 minute drive from downtown Eureka Springs, our boutique cabins and suites combine private luxury with a spirit of inclusivity.
A Safe, Welcoming Environment
From the moment you pull into our tree-lined driveway, you’ll notice the rainbow flags discreetly flying beside each cabin—our way of saying “All are welcome here.” Our staff undergoes sensitivity training, and we partner with local LGBTQ+ organizations to ensure our property remains a safe, judgment-free zone for every guest.
Space to Recharge
Festival weekends can be exhilarating—and exhausting! At Eureka Sunset, you’ll find:
- Private Decks & Fire Pits: Kick back under the stars and swap your favorite Pride moments around a cozy fire.
- Hot Tubs & Cuddle Spaces: Let the warm bubbles soothe your festival-sore muscles.
- High-Speed Wi-Fi & Work Nooks: Share your Pride selfies instantly or catch up on emails (if you must!).
- Fully Equipped Kitchens: Whip up a quick breakfast before the parade or stock the fridge with local treats you picked up on your way in.
LGBTQ+-Friendly Add-Ons
Elevate your stay with themed experiences from our Enhance Your Stay page:
- Rainbow Welcome Basket: Local artisan chocolates, Pride-themed mugs, and bath bombs in every hue.
- In-Cabin Drag Brunch: Arrange for a local drag performer to host an intimate brunch performance.
- Guided Photo Tours: Capture Insta-worthy Pride moments around town with a pro photographer.
Our Enhance Your Stay link makes customizing your weekend simple and fun.
Featured Rainbow-Ready Accommodations
No two Pride travelers are the same—some want cozy, others crave space for a squad. Here are two fan-favorite options, each with its own flair:
The Knotty Hawg Suite
A charming one-bedroom retreat perfect for couples or solo adventurers. Features:
- King-size bed with plush linens
- Electric fireplace and comfy reading nook
- Mini-kitchen with espresso machine
- Private deck with forest views
Book the Knotty Hawg Suite for a cozy, romantic vibe that still keeps you close to the parade route.
Duck Inn Suite
Traveling with friends or family? The Duck Inn Suite offers:
- Queen bed plus sleeper sofa
- Full kitchen and dining area
- ADA-accessible bathroom
- Outdoor seating with gas grill
Check availability and reserve the Duck Inn Suite for a comfortable, convenient Pride home base.
Pride-Perfect Itineraries From Eureka Sunset
Not sure how to juggle dance lessons, parade viewing spots, and late-night DJ sets? We’ve got you covered with two curated journeys—see more on our Suggested Itineraries page.
Itinerary A: All-Out Pride Power
Thursday, June 12
- Afternoon: Arrive and check in to your cabin. Collect your Rainbow Welcome Basket.
- 6 pm: Stroll downtown for the Opening Ceremonies.
- 8 pm: Basin Park drag show blast-off.
Friday, June 13
- Morning: Yoga at Basin Park Lawn.
- Afternoon: Kids Zone adventures (face painting and bubble parties).
- Evening: Tig Notaro comedy special at the Auditorium.
Saturday, June 14
- Morning: DIY Pride flag craft in your cabin.
- 2 pm: Join the Pride Parade on Spring Street.
- 6 pm: Center Street dance party—learn a salsa step!
- 9 pm: Rainbow Rock Night at Basin Park Auditorium.
Sunday, June 15
- Morning: Brunch with drag hosts (private in-cabin option).
- Noon: Farewell jam session at local café.
- 2 pm: Check out and wave goodbye—see you next year!
Itinerary B: Chill & Cheer
Thursday
- Arrive mid-afternoon, settle in, and enjoy the hot tub.
- Evening: Casual cocktails at Eureka Sunset’s fire pit, swapping festival tips.
Friday
- Morning: Guided walking tour of historic downtown (ask at front desk).
- Afternoon: Relaxing spa treatment booked via Enhance Your Stay.
- Evening: Low-key acoustic set at Courtyard Cabaret.
Saturday
- Morning: Nature hike on nearby Arkansas Trails.
- Afternoon: Café lunch and Pride Parade spectating from our favorite bench spot.
- Evening: Center Street DJ set—bring glow sticks!
Sunday
- Morning: Leisurely pack-up, coffee on the deck.
- Late morning: Sunrise yoga and mindfulness circle.
- Noon: Check out with a final wave.
Beyond the Festival: Explore Our Ozark Playground
Eureka Springs is bursting with charm beyond Pride weekend. Whether you’re queer and curious or looking to extend your stay, check our Things to Do in Eureka Springs guide:
- Thorncrown Chapel: A glass chapel nestled in the woods—perfect for reflective moments.
- Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge: Meet rescued big cats and support their mission.
- Crescent Hotel Ghost Tour: Embrace your spooky side with a haunted history.
- Duck Pond Paddleboat: A leisurely float with scenic views.
- Art Gallery Hop: Discover local artisans whose work you’ll covet (and may take home).
Mix and match these adventures with your Pride schedule for a trip that’s uniquely you.
Looking for something sooner? Check out the Rockin’ Eureka Festival!
How to Book Your Pride Stay at Eureka Sunset
Ready to secure your cabin? It’s quick and easy:
- Head to Our Homepage – View photos, layouts, and real-time availability: Eureka Sunset Home.
- Choose Your Dates – Enter check-in June 12 and check-out June 15 to see cabin options.
- Add Pride Extras – Select your Drag Brunch, Rainbow Welcome Basket, or photo shoot via our Enhance Your Stay page.
- Confirm & Relax – You’ll receive a booking confirmation with all the details you need.
For group blocks or special requests—like a private drag performance under your own roof—reach out directly: Contact Us or call (877) 546-9679.
Let’s Make Pride 2025 Unforgettable
Eureka Springs Pride Festival isn’t just an event—it’s a living, breathing testament to joy, acceptance, and community. With street parades that paint the town every shade of the rainbow, world-class performers on multiple stages, and a family-friendly vibe that truly welcomes all, there’s something for everyone.
And when you need a break from the bustle, your sanctuary awaits at Eureka Sunset Cabins—where inclusion is our policy, comfort is our promise, and your Pride weekend becomes the getaway of a lifetime. We can’t wait to celebrate with you under the Ozark sky. Pack your rainbow gear, book your stay, and get ready for four days of love, laughter, and living your truth.
See you in Eureka Springs! 🌈🎉
