The mid- to late-1990s saw a shift in the evolution of Kansas City’s Pride Celebrations.  Organizers noted the size of crowds in attendance, and realized that the Celebrations could turn a profit if presented appropriately.  The first evidence of this transformation in GLAMA collections is in 1996.  While the Celebration was presented for the second year by Project Pride, a new initiative of GLSN, it appears to have been the first time a fee was levied on attendees.  The one-day festival was held at Barney Allis Plaza in downtown Kansas City, preceded by a parade.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By 1998, a for-profit corporation was responsible for the Pride Celebration, again held in Barney Allis Plaza with an accompanying parade and admission fee.  In 10 years, Kansas City’s Pride Celebration has gone from a grassroots, community-driven effort to a profit-driven event.