Free Westport Pride Fest returning for year 3 as founders receive Commonwealth Pride Awards

Westport, MA – Over one hundred community leaders were recognized at the Massachusetts State House in Boston on Wednesday during the Inaugural 2026 Commonwealth Pride Awards and Westport Pride Fest Founders, Keith and Jessie Dias, were two of last week’s awardees. The married couple are residents of Westport, and the owners of the award-winning crystal & psychic shop, The Cat And Raven, also located in town on Main Road. The LGBTQ-owned small business is currently expanding/moving, with a Grand Re-Opening Celebration scheduled for Friday, June 26th – the weekend of Westport Pride Fest Year 3.

Keith received his nomination from Senator Michael J Rodrigues, while his husband Jessie was nominated by State Representative Steven Ouellette. The ceremony was organized by the Massachusetts LGBTQ+ Caucus, with Senators and State Representatives across the state nominating individuals for their outstanding impact, leadership and significant contributions to community.

“I am deeply honored by Senator Rodrigues’ nomination for a Commonwealth Pride Award” said Keith Dias. “It’s validation that our hard work and tireless efforts do not go unnoticed. And I know my dad, a military man and Vietnam Vet, would be proud” he added.

“As a Naturalized Citizen of the United State of America, it’s a great privilege to be a guest of the state house and recipient of such a prestigious award” said Jessie Dias. Thank you, State Representative Ouellette” he added.

Westport Pride Fest Returns with New Location
Now in its third year, the free-to-attend community event makes the transition to town property.

“From the beginning, it was always our intention to hold Westport Pride Fest on town property” said Jessie Dias. “If you remember, Year 1 was originally announced to be held at the Westport Annex” he continued.

“And three years later, it all comes full circle with Pride Fest finding its new home at the Alice A. Macomber School” said Keith Dias. “This is a major win for the LGBTQ+ community here in Westport, as an event of this nature should have always been on town property. That sends a message of unity to the greater community” he continued.

Westport Pride Fest 2026 will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at 154 Gifford Road from 11 am – 5 pm. The event is rain or shine and will feature free parking, live entertainment and a wide range of crafters & vendors. Plus! For the first time ever, Westport Pride Fest welcomes food trucks to the event.

The event is sponsored by Senator Michael Rodrigues, Westport Federal Credit Union, J.W. STEELE Custom Canvas + South Coast Entertainment MA.