Knoxville TN, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Knox Pride has announced the cancellation of its 2025 Pride Fest and Parade, originally scheduled for October 3 and 4, due to last-minute issues in securing liability insurance. Executive director John Camp shared the news on Facebook, expressing disappointment for the community. Despite this setback, Knox Pride aims to overcome these challenges and ensure a successful 2026 Pride Fest. Community members are encouraged to celebrate by attending nearby Chattanooga Pride.
Knoxville – Knox Pride has officially canceled its 2025 Pride Fest and Parade, originally scheduled to take place on October 3 and 4 in downtown Knoxville, due to last-minute issues related to securing liability insurance. The announcement was made by John Camp, executive director of Knox Pride, in a video message on Facebook.
The cancellation has left many in the community disheartened and disappointed. Camp explained that the inability to secure adequate liability insurance was the main deciding factor behind this unfortunate decision. He also stated that it is the organization’s commitment to avoid such issues in the planning of future events, specifically mentioning their goal for a successful 2026 Pride Fest.
This year has posed safety concerns that have significantly impacted the planning and execution of such large public gatherings. In light of the cancellation, Camp urged community members to continue the celebration by attending nearby Chattanooga Pride on Sunday.
Knox Pride has maintained close working relationships with city leaders, who have been supportive partners throughout the event’s planning stages. Following the announcement, the organization reached out to vendors, performers, sponsors, and relevant agencies to inform them of the cancellation and its implications.
Knox Pride Fest has become a prominent free pride event in the South since its inception. Notably, it is scheduled in October instead of the more traditional June timeframe, a strategic decision made by the organizers. Beyond the annual Pride Fest, Knox Pride is involved in various other initiatives throughout the year, including volunteer days, support groups, and entertainment events like Karaoke & Open Stage Drag Night.
With the sudden cancellation of this year’s Pride Fest, the Knox Pride organization is determined to learn from the experience and improve conditions leading up to the next event in 2026.
FAQ
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What event has Knox Pride canceled?
Knox Pride has canceled its 2025 Pride Fest and Parade in downtown Knoxville.
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When was the cancellation announced?
The cancellation was announced just days before the event was scheduled to take place on October 3 and 4.
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Why was the event canceled?
The cancellation was due to the organization’s inability to secure liability insurance at the last minute.
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How did John Camp feel about the cancellation?
Camp expressed that this decision is disheartening and disappointing for the community, as well as for the organizers.
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What are Knox Pride’s plans for the future?
He stated that they are committed to finding a solution for the 2026 event to avoid a similar issue in the future.
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What should the community do in light of this cancellation?
Camp encouraged the community to attend Chattanooga Pride on Sunday for continued celebration.
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How has Knox Pride worked with local leaders?
Knox Pride has been working closely with city leaders who have been supportive partners in organizing the event.
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What features does Knox Pride offer besides the annual Pride Fest?
In addition to the annual Pride Fest, Knox Pride offers various programs, including volunteer days, support groups, and entertainment events like Karaoke & Open Stage Drag Night throughout the year.
Key Features of Knox Pride
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Cancelled | 2025 Pride Fest and Parade |
| Cancellation Announcement | Days before the event on October 3 and 4 |
| Reason for Cancellation | Inability to secure liability insurance |
| Commitment to Future Events | Aiming for a successful 2026 Pride Fest |
| Community Encouragement | Attend Chattanooga Pride on Sunday |
| Support from Local Leaders | Close collaboration with city leaders |
| Year-Round Programs | Volunteer days, support groups, Karaoke & Open Stage Drag Night |
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: Knoxville Pride Fest Canceled
- WBIR: Knox Pride Fest Canceled
- WATE: Knox Pride Fest Canceled
- Wikipedia: Knoxville
- Google Search: Knox Pride Fest
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
