Permit denied with no explanation

Southlake City Council voted unanimously to deny a permit for Pride Kel-So festival scheduled for October. No explanation was provided despite allowing the event last year.

Last year drew 2,500 people

The inaugural Pride Kel-So was held in 2025 at St. Martin In The Field Episcopal Church. The family-friendly event had vendors, live music, and drew attendees from Southlake and Keller.

Organizers shocked by the decision

Co-founder April Dreyson says she's still in shock and received no explanation. The organizers followed all recommendations and expected questions if council had concerns.

“We followed all the recommendations and did not expect, especially with no comments, no questions. If they had concerns they didn't bring them up.”

Church pastor spoke in support

Reverend Ellen Singer from St. Martin In The Field spoke at the council meeting. She said the festival's goal is to bring the community together and celebrate being a community.

“It's clear there is conflict. It's clear there is some sort of rupture in the community and actually the goal of something like this is to bring people together.”

Opposition cited last year's protestors

One speaker opposed the event at Tuesday's meeting, citing protestors who showed up last year. Only two people spoke on the issue, one in favor and one opposed.

Event may be downsized instead

Organizers say they could downsize the event to avoid needing a permit, which is required for gatherings over 1,000 people. Dreyson says they're going to figure it out.

“We're going to figure it out.”