Pride Fest kicks off in Chicago

CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) -- Chicago's Pride festivities kicked off this weekend in Boystown where streets were shut down and musical performances took over for ‘Pride Fest.’ The two-day annual celebration usually draws a crowd of close to 100,000 people.

Every year security is top of mind and this year is no different, especially following the tragic gay nightclub shooting in Orlando last weekend.

“I think it's in memorial and I think it's also just showing that we are not afraid and no one should be,” said Lauren Negaard.

Chicago police announced last week they were adding 200 uniformed and plainclothes officers for Pride events this month. Pride Parade and festival organizers say they too are increasing their own private security.

“We have upped security at the gates, we've upped private security throughout the weekend,” said Christopher Barrett Politan of the Northalsted Business Alliance.

‘Pride Fest’continues Sunday from 11am-10pm.

Chicago police said there's been no threat made against the city's gay community.