Buffalo Grove Pride Parade 2025 held Sunday: ‘We need all of this, it’s not just one person, it’s all the people’

The Buffalo Grove Pride Parade took place on Sunday, June 1 with 100 parade entries in Buffalo Grove. The parade had a theme of “Pride is Natural” and featured breezy, sunny weather in the 60-degree range.

BG Pride and the Pinta Pride Project organized the seventh annual parade, which was started by Molly Pinta with the support of her parents, Bob and Carolyn Pinta. The Pinta family, formerly from Buffalo Grove, now resides in Prairie View.

Bob Pinta remarked on the positive energy at the parade despite the current world circumstances. Carolyn Pinta expressed the sentiment of victory and love prevailing.

The parade showcased various entries including floats, cheerleaders, color guards, and decorated sports cars. Chris Woodard from Mundelein praised the parade’s growth and the sense of celebration it brought.

Many Lake County officials attended, such as Kristal Larson, the first openly transgender elected official in Lake County. U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider and Buffalo Grove Village President Eric Smith also participated, emphasizing unity and diversity.

Highwood Pride was represented at the parade, with Robyn Bauer highlighting the importance of kindness and unity within the LGBTQ+ community. The event was a celebration of pride and inclusivity in the Buffalo Grove community.