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Kissimmee makes plans to ensure a safe Pridefest

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Preparations for the 7th annual Pridefest in downtown Kissimmee are underway.

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Officials say the show must go on, even as other cities in Florida, such as St. Cloud, have canceled their celebrations in the wake of Gov. Ron DeSantis signing laws some said target the LGBTQ community.

City officials said they’ve got a plan in place to keep everyone safe, and a plan to make sure they follow the rules of the new legislation.

READ: St. Cloud Pride event canceled over safety concerns

Those in St. Cloud said it was too dangerous to move forward with the event. But Kissimmee officials said they’re not backing down.

The city is partnering with Kissimmee police making sure planning and operations is up to date.

READ: 9 things to do this weekend in Central Florida

Stephanie Bechara, Communications and Public Affairs manager for the city of Kissimmee, said she can’t share details on what the plan is, but did say they’ve been talking and making adjustments to events they’re planning, like drag bingo which is for those 18 and older. IDs will be checked, complying with legislation Gov. Ron DeSantis recently signed into law restricting children under 18 from being in the audience of “adult entertainment.”

The city is asking anyone wanting to play drag bingo tomorrow to sign up ahead of time. Click here to register.

READ: Orlando’s ‘Come out With Pride’ celebration is happening no matter what, organizers say

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.