Hundreds Enjoyed Madison's 1st Ever PrideFest

MADISON, CT —Hundreds gathered on Madison's town green for the community's inaugural PrideFest celebration Saturday.

Organizers said over the course of the afternoon, some 300 people attended.

"Our team was thrilled with the turnout and enthusiasm for Madison's first ever PrideFest," Madison CT Pride said in a Facebook message to Patch.

"We extend our gratitude and thanks to each of our incredible sponsors, vendors, partners, and attendees, and look forward to planning next year's event."

Moving speeches, testimonials, and live music was the soundtrack for the festival that featured vendors and family-friendly activities.

And local elected leaders were there.

“Today we celebrate the diversity of our community and make a statement to the world that Madison is welcoming to all," First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons said.

"My husband and I feel lucky to be raising our children in a Town where they have classmates with same sex parents, babysitters who are gender fluid, or visit businesses owned by LGBTQ owners," Lyons said. "They are growing up in a world that is far more accepting of human diversity than any previous generation."

State Sen. Christine Cohen said her "heart was swollen with pride," in a post about the event.