Upper Cumberland Pride: Just Can’t Hide That Pride

Story by Lauren Means • Photo Courtesy Upper Cumberland Pride

JUST CAN’T HIDE THAT PRIDE! Upper Cumberland Pride (UCP) Festival is back and will be held on Aug. 21 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Dogwood Park in Cookeville. Although it’s being held a little later than normal on Aug. 21, the festivities are already underway.

In May, the Tennessee Tech Players from Tennessee Tech University put on Drag at the Backdoor as a fundraiser for UCP. 

On July 10, the Upper Cumberland Pride Pageant 2021 will be held at the Cookeville Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m. This will be a night of competition and entertainment while searching for the next Miss and Mr. Upper Cumberland Pride.

“All of us at UCP are so excited for this year’s festival and have been working diligently to prepare for all the fun!” said Miles, the UCP President.

“This year’s event is extra special after all the endurance and perseverance our community members have shown throughout the COVID-19 pandemic! As such, we have some special events and performances planned at this year’s event as well as several booths set up in attendance too! We want you to know that all of us at UCP are proud to represent all of our LGBTQ+ Brothers, Sisters, non-binary, and especially our community members living in the Upper Cumberland!” Miles exclaimed.

UCP is also hosting a pride t-shirt design competition this year. They are requesting line drawings around the theme JUST CAN’T HIDE THAT PRIDE! There’s a cash prize of $100 for the image selected. For more information, email [email protected].

UCP was founded in August 2011 with the first pride festival held in Dogwood Park on May 5, 2012. The festival has since been held at other locations like the West Side Events Center and most recently at the Hyder-Burks Pavilion. UCP represents all 16 counties of the Upper Cumberland and they strive to make the community a better place. 

As Miles said, “Come join in on the fun! We love you, and we can’t wait to see you at the park!”

For all the details, visit www.ucpride.org.