Dear community,
The 2026 Manitou Pride celebration is scheduled for Saturday, July 11. But we need your help to make the magic happen. 
Manitou Pride began in 2022, a community-powered initiative from the start. As we established a grassroots fundraising campaign, we realized that Manitou Springs is exactly the place in which to celebrate rainbows, freedom, and love. Over the years, the festival has had its challenges, and it has taken not only a dedicated group of volunteers, but community support and funding to create a sustainable event.
We deeply believe that Pride should be created by the community for the community. We want to be a collaborative, transparent, and joy-filled reimagining of what a Pride celebration can be. Our goal is to create a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and celebrated. We’re here to center queer joy, amplify voices, and build something sustainable that reflects all of us.
We know that this is an uphill battle of trying to fundraise enough money to hold the celebration. It will cost between $10,000 and $12,000. Though we have been awarded a small grant from the Manitou Springs Women’s Club, the remainder of the funds will be raised by the community.
Your financial support will help to fund performances, emcees, DJs, trash, porta potties, advertising, fencing, banners, decoration, and park rental. We hope that you and your organization will want to be a part of this amazing, inclusive, community event. There are several ways to support Manitou Pride as you will see on the sponsorship flyer included with this letter. You can also reach out to [email protected] to get involved.
Thank you to the Board of Manitou Springs Carnivale, EIN 93-4372851; for agreeing to be our Fiscal Sponsor this year! You can scan the QR code on the attached flyer to contribute, or make your check payable to Manitou Springs Pride Fest, CO/ Manitou Springs Carnivale. Checks may be mailed to Manitou Carnivale @ Manitou Art Center, 513 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, 80829.
You can also donate online here.
100% of your funds go directly to Pride and are tax deductible.
We look forward to hearing from you. Please contact us with any questions, concerns, or comments.
Thank you for your consideration,
K8e Orr & Lyn Ettinger-Harwell
Manitou Springs Pride Fest Organizers
