Record-breaking turnout expected for Aurora Pride Weekend

AURORA, Ill. - Aurora residents are eager to see their downtown come alive this weekend with people enjoying Pride festivities. 

Crews have been busy sweeping streets and preparing the parade route.

On Friday, the colors of the Pride Flag were enhanced in sunshine next to but lower than the American Flag in downtown Aurora, kicking off a weekend of pride events in Illinois’ second-largest city.

This is the second year of an official commemoration in Aurora. In the past, there was some drama in regard to the Pride Parade. Last year, the city could not get enough police officers to volunteer to provide security for the large-scale event, after organizers had asked participating police not to wear their typical uniforms. 

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The group, called Aurora Pride, felt that the hardware could be triggering for some people. This year, they’re hoping the focus will be on community pride.

Organizers said they are expecting more participants than ever before. 

The Aurora Pride parade starts at East Benton Street and South Broadway this Sunday at noon.