Capital Pride: The Who, Where, What, When, and Why YOU Should Be Attending!

As you all know we like to get to the bottom of everything (no pun intended!) so we reached out to our friends at Capital Pride to get the inside scoop on this awesome Pride Festival! Here is the skinny from our good friend Missy Toms, programmer of the festival.

What sets Capital Pride apart from other events of its type?

"Capital Pride is the third largest Pride in the nation. The Capitol Building is the backdrop for our main performance stage. We plan events for two full weeks in June, not just a parade and festival. Also, our parade has been voted the Best in DC four years running."

What about this year's Capital Pride makes it bigger and better than last year's? 

"All these things are happening at the festival.We have expanded our family area to include inflatables and fun activities. We have a Taste@Pride where people can purchase tickets for chef tastings and Barefoot Wines. Our arts section will include an Art Fair. We'll have a demonstration area for groups like dog handlers and roller derby girls to perform."

How does this event represent/reflect the LGBT culture of Washington D.C.?

"The DC community is a very diverse international city. It is also very proud of its stance on LGBT rights, e.g. gay marriage is legal, and the city draws visitors from many neighboring states that aren't as welcoming. Since many of our events are free, including the festival, we have a very diverse crowd, including a strong allies contingent. DC is a small town in a big city. Residents take pride in these events."

What should guests expect from this year's Capital Pride?

"Two weeks of fun, education, and celebration. All of our events are listed here: http://www.capitalpride.org/event-calendar"

What is the history of Capital Pride?

"Our history can be found here: http://www.capitalpride.org/about-us/history"

How has this event impacted the local and broader LGBT community?

"As mentioned above, this is a regional Pride event. We are open to all no matter your background, ethnicity, social standing, political leanings, etc. It's an event that all kinds of people can come together and celebrate who they are and be proud. Our theme this year is: Be True. Be You! In addition to social impact, it does have a positive financial impact on the region's economy. The events attract more than 250,000 people to area restaurants, venues, shops, hotels."

Read more at the Capital Pride website.