Why was the Aurora Pride Festival cancelled?
The Aurora Pride Festival has been engaged in good faith planning with the City of Aurora over this past year on the 2019 Pride Festival and we were collaboratively moving forward on that plan under the economics of last year's parade. Two months before the opening of 2019 activities, the City of Aurora informed Pride Festival organizers of a 4x cost increase just for the Parade alone. Unfortunately, at no point during the year of planning were we given any indication of a 4x increase in costs. Based on our existing fundraising model, Indivisible Aurora has projected that we will be unable raise the additional funds needed for the increased costs in the days remaining. Because each member of our Board of Directors has a responsibility for the financial health of Indivisible Aurora, and given the increased financial demands, we are unfortunately forced to cancel the Aurora Pride Festival for 2019. We are heartbroken and indescribably disappointed for Aurora, the Fox Valley LGBTQ+ community, our partners and sponsors, and our enthusiastic supporters.
Why did the City of Aurora implement this increase in cost of the Pride Parade, and why didn’t they tell you earlier?
We don’t know. Any inquiries about the cost increase and delay in informing Pride Festival organizers sooner should be directed to the City of Aurora.
Will you still be having the 5K Color Run, Pride Marketplace, and other events scheduled for the Pride Festival?
The Aurora Pride Parade is the capstone event of the Aurora Pride Festival. Due to its cancellation, and projected attendance to the other events without the ultimate draw of the Parade, the decision has been made to cancel the whole Pride Festival, including the Parade.
Who can I direct questions to about the cancellation of the 2019 Aurora Pride Festival?
All questions and media inquiries can reach out to info@indivisibleaurora.org or fill out the form at the bottom of this page.
Will there be a Pride parade or Festival in 2020?
There are no announcements at this time, but we aren’t going away. Please stay tuned for future information about our plans for 2020.
But, I donated money and/or already paid my entry fee to one of your events. What happens to my money?
All entry fees for the Parade, Pride Marketplace, and 5K Color Run/Walk will be refunded within 14 days.
Those who donated money to the 2019 Pride Festival will have three options.
Receive a full refund.
Allow Indivisible Aurora to donate the funds you contributed to one of three local organizations positively impacting the LGBTQ+ community -- 360 Youth Services, Simply Destinee, or Youth Outlook in your/your organization’s name.
Receive a partial refund while allowing Indivisible Aurora to donate the funds you contributed to one of three aforementioned organizations in your/your organization’s name.
Sponsors and those who donated money to the Aurora Pride Festival will be contact immediately for their decision. Any refunds will be available within 14 days after their decision is reached.