Kitsap County had it’s first “Pride” gathering over 15 years ago. It was not that long ago where a turnout of 35 was a huge success. Back then it was West Sound Family and Gay County organizing the events. Some of those first events were held out at Scenic Beach State Park in Seabeck. There was always a volleyball game going, food on the grill and pot-luck dishes from the community.  We even had live music like the Seattle Lesbian and Gay Chorus.

The event quickly outgrew the park and moved to private property at John Foose’s Fox Farm in Southworth.  We used John’s studio/workshop to host the pot-luck.  John would often cater for us with delicious ribs, chicken or a pig.  It was a beautiful setting with tables set up under the orchard trees.  This is where we first added vendor booths and kicked up the entertainment with performers such as Lucie Blue Trembley, Magdalen Hsu-Li and Emma Wall.  We had some great community art projects including the art car.  We had to say goodbye to Fox Farm as we grew too big and the property was sold.

In 2005, the move was made to Evergreen Park in Bremerton to our first public pride event. We were finally OUT! There was so much to figure out working with the City of Bremerton and the Parks department.  There were permits, fees and a million dollars in insurance.  We significantly expanded the vendor area and had the stage going from noon to 5pm.

This year we will again be at Evergreen.

Kitsap Pride Network was formed in 2007 as a network of local organizations collaborating to celebrate community in Kitsap County. Networking together eases the planning and execution burden off of any one organization and allows for more community input. If you would like to get involved to support your local pride let us know. Send us a message.

Check out our growing list of Community Partnerships.

Support Your Local Pride!