I went to a Gay Pride festival and parade in Pittsburgh several years ago and had a great time. For those who have never been, relax, it is not what you are thinking. It is a bunch of really cool people walking around at a festival and having fun. I would rather go to a gay pride festival than a Steeler football game any day!! The people there were amazing and I really enjoyed myself. An example of the differences I noticed between a Gay Festival and any other festival was the people were considerate to others. The streets were crowded with people milling around, and everyone, and I mean everyone, would turn sideways to make passing in a tight spot easier. Even people walking with dogs would pull their dogs in line so everyone could get through. Everywhere else, your shoulders are hit by people who believe the festival is there for them alone and you are in their way.
I took my son with me and we did have a hard time getting the point across to him that the Queen of the parade was actually a very beautiful man. He was about 10. He finally got the point since my best friends that we hung out with all the time are lesbians.
The gay pride festival is about having fun with other people that aren't going to look at you with disdain or disgust or even absolute hatred. It is about laughing, having fun with friends and family, and in some cases making fun of yourself where people will laugh with you and not at you!. I had a ball and I hope that every one that goes to the one in NY have a great time.
