History of Pride Festival of Central PA The very first event that evolved into Pride was called "Open Air," and was held on the Police Athletic Grounds(PAL) along Harrisburg's Linglestown Road. The event was held in the late 80s for two consecutive years. Organization of the event was led by the volleyball team that used the PAL Building on N. 3rd St. At the time, organizers discussed how people might be afraid or unwilling to attend a “Gay Pride” event in this region. After much collaboration, the organizers chose the name "Open Air," to represent the fact that the community could come together in the light of day. Pink helium balloons served as the “signal” at the otherwise unremarkable entrance the festival. The event next moved to Ski Round Top and was hosted at a private condominium community on a huge rolling stretch of grass. Eventually, the event moved to Harrisburg Area Community College and then to Harrisburg's Riverfront Park. According to Dan Miller, the first openly gay Harrisburg City Council member, the first actual Pride festival was held on Sunday, July 26, 1992. Mission Statement The mission of the Pride Festival of Central PA is to increase positive visibility of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Straight Ally community of Central Pennsylvania by providing opportunities to express and celebrate diverse perspectives, emphasizing acceptance of all individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The Pride Festival of Central PA promotes awareness of and showcases organizations available to the GLBT and Straight Ally community, provides a safe environment for people of the GLBT and Straight Ally community to celebrate their diversity, and supports local economic growth by partnering with the community and attracting individuals to Central Pennsylvania. Any question please e-mail us at info@prideofcentralpa.org. Be sure to visit us online at www.prideofcentralpa.org.