A place for everyone: Putting Pride together
Mason City’s annual celebration is a labor of love
From fundraising to scouting talent to coordinating with vendors to putting together the day’s itinerary, Mason City’s LGBTQ+ Pride Festival organizer, Megan Markos’ work begins as soon as the spotlights dim after each year’s lively affair.
The annual event takes place in July — this year it’s on Saturday, the 19th — so folks can hit other festivals during June, which is traditionally Pride Month. The day begins in Central Park with an immersive marketplace, a fun run, and a pet parade. The festivities continue on into the evening with entertainment and a family-friendly drag show on Federal Plaza.
“In August of 2025, we’ll be applying for (park board permits) July of 2026.” She tries to start marketing the event in late winter or early spring of each year, but is always thinking ahead to years beyond that. “Pride is always in the back of my mind,” Markos said.
Markos, who identifies as queer, sees herself as a fierce activist and ally in her community, and she said putting together a festival that welcomes everyone is a must, stating that the event might be the only day some LGBTQ+ folks — especially youths — might be able to be around other queer people in a safe space. The spirit of Pride is known as one of inclusivity, and with that in mind, Markos requires all booth operators, vendors, and performers not only be family-friendly but also have values that match those of the community.
“We support people who support us,” Markos said. “Hopefully people get it … we want (to work with) people who support all members of the community … I’ve only turned people away if they had something that wasn’t family friendly or if there were just ideological differences, because I need to make sure our whole community is protected.”
Of course, there are residents who oppose the festival, but Markos does her best to keep disruptions at bay with a volunteer security staff and guidance from the Mason City Police Department. “We usually will talk to Chief (Jeff) Brinkley ahead of the time…just like, ‘What’s up? What have we heard? What’s safe to do?’” Her staff also has de-escalation training they rely on to prevent any trouble from arising. She’s grateful that most events aren’t very noteworthy when it comes to protesters, but preparation is key. “Every year, we learn things … and we have eyes on everything.”
Organizing the event is somewhat of a one-woman show, as Markos takes most of the planning upon herself. But, she’s trying to open herself up to accepting more help as the years have gone on. “This year, I’ve started reaching out to more people,” she said. “I do, throughout the year, have people say ‘I would love to help with Pride.’ It’s a little hard for me to relinquish control — I see Pride as my baby a little bit.”
Markos said the event, which draws hundreds of attendees from around North Iowa, saw about 30 booths and vendors in 2024, but she would like to see Mason City Pride continue to grow into an even more robust event. “Until we’re at Band Fest numbers, I’ll take every vendor and food truck and anyone else,” she said, referring to North Iowa Band Festival, the largest event in Mason City, which is held each year over Memorial Day weekend and features a parade, vendors, food trucks, carnival and a midway.
With the highlight of Mason City Pride being the entertainment, Markos turns to local and regional talent. “I am actually having a talk with Jade Knight, a fantastic performer out of Des Moines, who’s going to host our show this year,” Markos said, noting again that the show is appropriate for all ages. “I love my queer community so much, but we’ve got to play the game (and not draw the ire of opposers) — we have to be family friendly … My queens are absolutely fine, and we do vet the songs and costumes.”
Aside from the protesters, Markos says the all-ages atmosphere is great for drawing crowds from all demographics. “Every year, I have teens tell me how important it is to them, and keeping it family-friendly is important for that.”
All funding for the festival is provided by community donors and business sponsors, and Markos is always accepting monetary gifts and volunteers. Those interested in becoming a donor, volunteer, or vendor can reach her by email at mcpridemeg@gmail.com.
This year’s itinerary is as follows:
8 a.m. - Farmers market and vendor booths
9 a.m. - Fun run registration
1 p.m. - Pet parade hosted by The Other Guys Comedy duo Jason Clemens and Dillon Meek
TBD - MC Pride Community Recognition Awards
6 p.m. - Drag show
Central Park and Federal Plaza in Mason City is located at the intersection of State Street and Federal Avenues in central Downtown. Attendees are invited to dress festively and bring lawn chairs.
Lisa Grouette is a proud member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative, a group of Iowa writers, authors, and content producers. If you enjoy hearing from Iowa voices, please consider helping to broaden their reach with a paid subscription. Your support goes a long way.