On May 5, the Rainbows Festival opened its doors to the public at Heritage Square Park. It featured various vendors and performances from drag queens, DJs and bands.

Bearing the Arizona heat, first-time attendees Brenna McGraw and Natalia Speer joined the colorful celebrations at the festival to show their support and find community.

"I identify as lesbian," Speer said. "And I think that actually adds to my experience here growing up somewhat religious or very religious, I should say, not a lot of a community around that aspect of things. So being able to come to a community place is very nice."

For Speer and McGraw, the Rainbows Festival fosters a sense of community for those who didn't grow up with one or feel out of place. One of the main attractions is a booth of mothers and parental figures giving free hugs to those who didn't grow up with that sort of support.

"I remember (when) it was my first Pride, and it was kind of tumultuous," Speer said. "But they were just giving out free hugs to people, like family members. I thought that was very sweet, and it was very kind and compassionate as well. And you got to see a lot of people who didn't have families that were supportive of them getting support.."

For those fortunate enough to have a support system and a strong sense of community, Pride events like the Rainbows Festival serve as a powerful reminder of what solidarity can look like.

"I think we have a really strong community just amongst our friends right now," McGraw said. "Connecting with other queer people and just, I think community is also just part of living authentically ourselves and kind of being open to connecting with other people."

Rainbows Festival creates a safe space where people from all walks of life can unite and celebrate their differences. As a 40-year-old gay man, Freddie Nino feels not only accepted but proud of his identity and his journey.

"You just feel accepted," Nino said. "You don't feel like you have to hide. And when it comes to these festivals like Pride and Rainbows Festival, you just feel like you're one with everyone."

In a world that can sometimes feel cold and isolating, especially for those navigating their identities, events like the Rainbows Festival serve as a beacon of hope and belonging. This is not simply a celebration but a reminder that no one is ever truly alone. As the music from the performers echoed through Heritage Square Park, Rainbows Festival transforms into more than just a festival; it becomes a home for those searching for one.

"Come one, come all," Nino said. "Everyone's accepted. You might feel like you're alone, you might feel lonely, but they're always here."