Pints for Pride moves to The Grand Event Center

The second annual Pints for Pride, from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, April 6, will be held at The Grand Event Center. The fundraising event is organized by Imminent Brewing, The Grand Event Center and A Very Moxie Production. While admission is free, there is a suggested donation of $5.

Funds raised will go to an annual scholarship program for LGBTQ+ graduating seniors and quarterly events that build relationships, foster community, and improve the lives of queer people in the Northfield area, particularly the fourth annual Pride in the Park.

Begun in 2021, Northfield’s Pride in the Park has grown every year since. Organizers said more than 2,000 people attended the event in 2023, and they are expecting close to 3,000 people at this year’s celebration June 1 in Central Park.

Silent auction items range from a weekend getaway at a North Woods cabin and Chanhassen Dinner theater tickets to themed baskets of bundled items.

State Rep. Kristi Pursell, Northfield City Councilor Davin Sokup, and Kelli Podracky, the executive director of the Northfield Union of Youth, are slated as guest speakers. Northfield drag entertainer Mrs. Moxie will serve as emcee. Moxie noted the fundraiser was important for immediate and longer-range reasons, a conversation that will be highlighted during the event.

“Pride celebrations aren’t always welcome in other communities. We have to stand up and show support for the LGBTQ+ members of our community; that’s needed more than ever,” she said. “We want the next generations to come to feel welcome here in Northfield and throughout the nation.”