4th annual Underground Pride returns this Saturday

The Queen’s Guard is hosting the annual Underground Pride at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer this Saturday.

“Everybody is really excited for this year’s event,” said Vincent Feuilles, the founder and President of the Queen’s Guard. “It has grown each year, with more and more people coming out. More people seeing how open and accepting everyone is, not just the LGBTQ community. Everyone.”

This year marks the fourth anniversary of the first Underground Pride (UP), which was first held in Palmer in 2019. Held each summer in July, UP has grown, and this year has changed venues to the hosting UP at the Alaska State Fairgrounds. The Queen’s Guard is anticipating a crowd of at least 2,000 attendees; accommodating over 100 confirmed art, food, and non-profit vendors; and featuring a jam-packed program at our main stage featuring local Alaskan LGBTQ2S+ and drag talent; and much, much more.

“This is for everyone. We want people to see that not everything is ‘adults-only’ or ‘R-rated.’ We are about accepting the LGBTQ community, and seeing that they are safe,” Feuilles said.

He added that the flyers posted read “LGBTQ+ and allies,” and there’s a reason for that.

“We want allies and supporters of the LGBTQ community to come out and have fun, show their love.”

The Queen’s Guard was founded in 2018. Feuilles, founding member and current board president, says that the all-volunteer non-profit organization was founded “to act as a supportive shield” against protestors of family-friendly drag story time events in Anchorage and throughout the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. The group has since evolved to meet the increasing need of helping build safe, affirming, positive, and uplifting communities for queer and transgender youth and their families across southcentral Alaska.

“41% to 43% of trans kids suffer from suicidal ideation. The easiest way to combat these numbers is to show the love and support we have. That’s why we started the Queen’s Guard. When these kids are OK, that’s my happy day.”

The Queen’s Guard has been integral in maintain public visibility through large events such as UP, Underground Pride Prom, and with smaller events like the Queen’s Guard Coffee Hours in Wasilla and Anchorage.

UP 2023 will run from Noon to 8:00 pm, and attendees can enter through the Purple Gate. There are over 100 vendors and food trucks. There will also be two shows during the event, along with a live DJ.

No pets allowed on the Alaska State Fairgrounds. Service animals only. No smoking, and no alcohol or weapons allowed

“Come join the fun and freedom of being your authentic self while building community! A family friendly event for ALL ages! For LGBTQIA2+ and allies!

This is not an Alaska State Fair event. For more information visit: www.thequeensguard.gay/index.html