Lexington Park, MD — Pride Southern Maryland (Pride SOMD) will host its 8th annual LGBTQIA+ Pride Festival on Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lexington Manor Passive Park in Lexington Park. The free, family-friendly event welcomes the public and highlights the theme “Existence is Resistance,” emphasizing visibility and resilience within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Organized by Pride SOMD, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s Counties, the festival has grown from 50 attendees at its inception to over 1,500 last year. This year’s event will feature LGBTQIA+ small businesses, community resource booths, food trucks, a kids zone, live DJ entertainment, drag performances, speakers and a silent auction. The organization aims to provide a safe, inclusive space for celebration and education.
Brandon Russell, Vice Chair of Pride SOMD, stated, “Celebrating Pride is a reminder that our community is here, we matter, and we will not be erased. In today’s political climate, where LGBTQIA+ lives are consistently under attack, our theme ‘Existence is Resistance’ speaks to the power of showing up proudly, joyfully, and unapologetically.”
The festival schedule begins at 11 a.m. with gates opening, followed by a lineup of activities through 4 p.m. Entertainment includes drag shows and DJ sets, while vendors offer diverse food and merchandise options. A dedicated kids zone ensures family participation, and the silent auction provides additional engagement. No specific times for individual events were detailed, but the full day allows for broad attendance.
Pride SOMD’s growth reflects increasing community support in Southern Maryland. Last year’s attendance of over 1,500 underscores its status as a key regional event. The organization relies on community involvement to sustain its mission, offering a platform for local LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies to connect.
The event takes place at Lexington Manor Passive Park, a public space known for community gatherings. No admission fee applies, making it accessible to all. Parking details were not specified, but the park’s location in Lexington Park suggests typical public parking availability. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full program.
As a nonprofit, Pride SOMD focuses on supporting the local LGBTQIA+ population through annual events and resources. The festival aligns with its goal of fostering inclusivity amid challenging political conditions, as noted by Russell. No additional security or weather contingency plans were outlined, but the event’s history suggests preparedness for typical outdoor conditions.
This marks the eighth year for the festival, reinforcing its role in Southern Maryland’s cultural landscape. The date, October 12, falls on a Sunday, providing a weekend opportunity for attendance. Further details on vendors and performers will likely emerge closer to the event, based on past practices.
