Zanesville Pride 2026: Light rain, bright rainbows

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – June is Pride Month and with celebrations across the state and across the county, Zanesville was no exception despite the light drizzle of rain.

The 6th annual Zanesville Pride Event took place at Park Central, which was formerly known as Armco Park. Jillian Von Gunten is the president of The Zanesville Pride Group and is excited to see the the event continue to see success and support from people in Zanesville.

“It’s really wonderful because you know I grew up here, I work here, this is my community. And so, I would go to Pride in places like Chicago or Columbus and it didn’t seem like it was something that my community was necessarily ready for or open to,” Von Gunten said. “But we have been for the past five years and we still are. And I’m really taken aback and pleasantly surprised every year with the number of people who in the community are so supportive. businesses that are supportive…”

Zanesville Pride 2026 has around 15 sponsors/partners and more than 20 vendors at the park. The main draw of the afternoon were the drag performances with 16 performers that were a combination of Zanesville locals and those who’ve traveled from Columbus. Von Gunten says the support of sponsors, vendors, and the general community is important for people to see.

“Because we still live in a place where people think they would be better off no here than being their true self. Events like this remind everyone that everyone has value just as they are, that everyone is beautiful just as they are and you can be whoever you feel to be and still be a successful and contributing member of society,” Von Gunten said.

Von Gunten says she looks forward to growing the event every year. You can follow the Zanesville Pride Group on Facebook to learn more.