Christopher Street West's annual Pride Festival and Parade is impressively organized, impressively attended, impressively impressive. Started in 1970 as a remembrance of Stonewall, which had happened the previous year, the Los Angeles festivities have grown into one of the premiere pride celebrations in the country. On the planet, actually.
People: Lots. Stars: Many. Vibe: Good time, a coming together of everyone who supports equality, love, understanding, in the LGBT community and beyond. Things to do, see, be a part of: You only have to choose, but that can be difficult, given the variety and scope of events.
The theme of 2009 is Pride 365: Power. Passion. Purpose. And the parade's grand marshal is that wisecracker extraordinaire, Ms. Chelsea Handler (still excited to read the "Vodka" book, although we know we're probably the last people on the block to get it).
While there are many, many goings-on surrounding the big weekend, including art shows, talks, a play festival, comedy (including Gay-larious!), and dance parties -- check 'em all out here -- the Festival itself takes place on Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14 (eye full hours) on San Vicente between Santa Monica Boulevard and Melrose, while the Parade is on Sunday, June 14 at 11AM on Santa Monica Boulevard near Crescent Heights.
