Looking Fabulous at Your First Parade

Gay pride parades are one of those events where you can fully express yourself. For some, that much freedom is best expressed with the craziest costumes around, while others are okay with simply donning a gay pride t-shirt to show solidarity and support. When attending such an event, here are some tips to make your experience more enjoyable, comfortable and safe.

Connect

Going there with friends is fun but even if you go alone, you’ll certainly make a new acquaintance or two. Attendees of this event are pretty cheerful and friendly, and for the most part, they are there to have fun, while also carrying loud and proud their advocacy for equality. If you’re too shy to go on your own, ask gay groups in your school community if you can join them. It’s alright to go alone, too, as mentioned, but for a first-timer, it is probably better recommended to go with someone else. 

Gear Up

Gay parades can last all day and can be really exhausting so you’d want to be as comfortable as possible. So in addition to your rainbow flag and extra gay pride t-shirts for changing, pack up sunscreen, plenty of water, and some cash, too. Avoid bringing lots of money and keep them in places safe from pickpockets. Also, wear close-toed shoes e.g. a pair of boots or sneakers to protect your feet from broken glasses and mucky streets, and slippery dance floors.