Burnsville Pride Festival Returns September 19th to Nicollet Commons Park
BURNSVILLE, MINNESOTA - The Burnsville Pride Festival returns to Nicollet Commons Park later this month, bringing live entertainment, local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities to the heart of Burnsville.
The free annual festival is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Nicollet Commons Park. Organizers are inviting residents from Burnsville, the South Metro, and surrounding communities to attend. Centered around themes of love, diversity, and community, the festival is designed to bring together LGBTQ+ residents, families, friends, allies, businesses, and community organizations for an afternoon of entertainment and connection.
Live Entertainment, Food, and Activities
Visitors will have several activities and entertainment options throughout the five-hour festival. Organizers say the event will feature live music, drag performances, and other entertainment highlighting local talent. Food trucks will be on site, while vendor booths will feature local businesses and organizations.
Family- and child-friendly activities will include face painting, art stations, and games. Attendees will also have opportunities to meet representatives from community organizations and learn about available resources.
“Burnsville Pride is about creating a welcoming space where everyone can feel seen, valued and connected,” Burnsville Pride founder and board president Alison Cromie said. “Each year, we're inspired by the support of our community and the opportunity to celebrate the diversity that makes Burnsville and the South Metro such a vibrant place to live.”
Community Partners Support Festival
Several community partners support the 2026 festival, including the City of Burnsville and Dakota County Library, along with local businesses, organizations, and individual donors. Burnsville Pride is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization that supports and connects LGBTQ+ people and their families in Burnsville and communities throughout the South Metro.
In addition to its annual Pride Festival, the organization hosts community events throughout the year. Its programming is intended to increase visibility, connection, and a sense of belonging while remaining free and family-friendly.
Parking and Transportation
Those driving to the festival will have access to free street parking as well as nearby parking ramps throughout Burnsville’s Heart of the City area surrounding Nicollet Commons Park. Public transportation is also available.
Minnesota Valley Transit Authority Route 444 provides service to the area from the Burnsville Transit Station, Savage Park and Ride, and Mall of America, according to festival organizers.
2026 Burnsville Pride Festival
The festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 19, at Nicollet Commons Park in Burnsville. Admission is free, and activities are planned for attendees of all ages.
Additional information about the festival, participating sponsors, and other Burnsville Pride programming is available through Burnsville Pride’s website.
Written by: Will Wight
