What It’s Like to Go to Pride (and Who Should Go)
This past weekend I went to Denver Pride with some friends. Pride is always fun, interesting, overwhelming, educational, and full of community.
I first attended Pride in 2004 in Massachusetts; the summer Krissy and I started dating. It also happened to be the first year same-sex marriage was legal in Massachusetts. My favorite memory from that first Pride was seeing signs that read, "Been together 55 years. Just Married!" and "Been together 70 years. Just Married!" It was a beautiful reminder that same-sex couples have always existed and always will. No matter what politicians, religious leaders, or anyone else may believe or say, love has always been here.
To me, Pride is one of the few places where people can simply be themselves. For one weekend, many people feel completely accepted, even if they don't experience that acceptance in their everyday lives. I will never pretend to understand every person under the LGBTQIA+ rainbow, but I will always support their right to live authentically, as long as no one is being harmed.
Every year I learn something new at Pride. I don't know what every flag represents. I don't fully understand every identity or every form of self-expression. I'm not transgender, so I can't know what that experience feels like. But I do understand what it means to love, to be loved, and to want to belong. It is an honor to witness people living their truth—or still trying to discover it.
And don't think this is only for LGBTQIA+ people. Straight allies are absolutely welcome, and I think many would genuinely enjoy the experience.
After moving to Colorado, we've attended Denver Pride almost every year in different ways. We've volunteered, marched in the parade, watched the parade, explored the booths, enjoyed the entertainment, watched our son experience Pride, and spent plenty of time simply people-watching (which might honestly be my favorite part).
This year was different. Pride moved from Civic Center Park to the 16th Street Mall. Personally, I preferred the old location, and for the first time, Krissy and I weren't able to attend together. I definitely missed her. Thankfully, I still had a wonderful day with my friends Courtney and Abby.
Denver Pride has three main parts: the parade, the festival booths, and the entertainment.
The parade takes place on Sunday morning and includes businesses, churches, government organizations, marching bands, floats, community groups, and so much more. You'll see everything from the famous Dykes on Bikes and the Gay Rodeo to incredible drag performers, colorful costumes, and thousands of rainbow flags. One of my favorite moments this year was seeing someone walking through the crowd handing out free water while wearing a shirt that said, "Water is a Human Right." Mostly, though, what you'll see is joy.
The festival booths stretch for blocks. Hundreds of businesses, colleges, nonprofits, food vendors, sporting groups, healthcare organizations, and community groups participate. Some hand out free swag, others promote their organizations, collect signatures for causes, provide health information, or raise money for LGBTQIA+ organizations. We stop by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) booth every year to make our annual donation.
The entertainment is spread across several stages featuring live music, comedy, dancing, and performances throughout the weekend. While I usually don't spend much time watching the shows, I know many people do. I'm usually too busy people-watching.
Pride is one of the most welcoming places I've ever experienced, but it can also be incredibly overwhelming. The phrase "come as you are" truly applies here, and therefore people come as they may, in the Subaru loads. You'll see everything from elaborate costumes and rainbow outfits to leather gear, furries, drag performers, and people wearing very little at all. You'll also notice countless "Free Mom Hugs" and "Free Dad Hugs" shirts, which always make me smile.
Like many large outdoor festivals, there is alcohol, the smell of Colorado (marijuana), loud music, and huge crowds Sometimes you'll find yourself squeezed shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of people, while other areas offer plenty of space to slow down and breathe.
Pride takes place over both Saturday and Sunday. Saturday is advertised as being more family-focused, although I personally haven't noticed a huge difference between the two days besides the parade and fun run taking place on Sunday.
If you're bringing children—or even parents who haven't experienced Pride before—be prepared for conversations. People are expressive, language can be colorful, and there are displays related to sexuality. Pride is about celebrating identity, and that includes aspects of sexuality that some families may want to discuss together. Every family can decide what is appropriate for them.
Overall, I've always felt safe at Pride. Like any large event in a major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. One thing I missed about the old Civic Center Park location was the fenced entrance and bag checks. The new location doesn't have those same security features, and I also found it harder to hear the entertainment throughout the festival.
No matter how many Pride festivals I attend, I always leave having learned something new. There are still things I don't fully understand, and that's okay. Learning doesn't require complete understanding on day one. What matters to me is keeping an open heart, asking respectful questions, and continuing to grow. Pride reminds me every year that every person deserves dignity, respect, and the freedom to be themselves.
Tips for Your First Pride
Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable—but remember it's usually very hot.
Stay as long (or as little) as you'd like.
Comfortable shoes are worth it...unless they ruin your outfit.
Don't skip the sunscreen. (Trust me!)
Bring a reusable water bottle or plan to buy drinks.
Expect to collect a surprising amount of free swag.
Food is delicious but expensive—think county fair prices and food.
Come with an open mind and be ready to experience things that may be new to you.
Everyone is welcome.
Most importantly, have fun!
Have you ever been to a Pride festival? Would you go? I'd love to hear about your experience—or answer any questions if you're thinking about attending your first one.
Love for all,
Anne
