Staunton Pride atmosphere "feels like home"

After Queen City Mischief and Magic brought thousands of people to downtown Staunton last weekend, the city has more visitors this weekend thanks to Staunton Pride.

Parts of downtown Staunton shut down Saturday for the festival, which aims to celebrate and support all members of the community in order to increase acceptance and inclusivity in the area.

"I love Staunton. I love pride. It's an amazing day," said Micaela Harmon, a student at Mary Baldwin University.

Harmon, who is from Northern Virginia, said Staunton is one of the most accepting cities she has ever been in and that the festival felt like home.

"It really does. Everyone is super nice, I've gotten hugs from people I don't even know," Harmon said. "It feels like a big family here and I love that."

The event ends Sunday with just one event: karaoke at Redbeard Brewing at 7:00 p.m.

All of the event's proceeds this weekend will be donated to the Shenandoah LGBTQ Center.