Pride Festival

So, this Saturday is the Pacific Pride Festival! Last year wasn't the greatest turnout (although it wasn't bad compared to previous years), and it depresses me when the LGBT community has a day of celebration and only a fraction of us actually show up.

Last year, when I was working the check-in booth, a couple came up to me and asked what the festival was for.

"It's Santa Barbara's Pride Festival. We're celebrating the queer community!"

And they're response?

"Oh, we don't support that."

And they walked away.

I want to see more people out there that DO "support that," and that want to give our community more representation.

When I was little, I remember asking my parents why there isn't a Kids' Day since there is a Fathers' Day and a Mothers' Day.

"Ty, EVERY day is Kids' Day."

Well, every day is also Hetero Day. I want to hold hands with my boyfriend without having to release it every time I see someone approaching. And, perhaps out of selfishness and cowardice, I only feel comfortable doing that when I know the people I'm around are queer as well. Or at least openly supportive.

So please show up this year. It's free. The performers may not be Kathy Griffin or Lady Gaga, but they are entertaining and I guarantee you'll smile.

Here's this year's schedule of events building up to and following the festival. I hope to see some familiar faces.

Wednesday July 8

Kick-off to Pride, “Sunset” at the rooftop of The Canary Hotel

Free Admission

6-9 PM

31 W Carrillo St., Santa Barbara

Thursday July 9

Pride Girl Party, “Stiletto” at Whiskey Richards

DJ FTRTRSH and Luna Bella Make-up Art

$7 at the door

9 PM – CLOSE

435 State Street, Santa Barbara

Friday July 10

Pride Pre-Party at Club Statemynt

presented by Robert Mendez and Dennis Berringer

DJ Gavin Roy

9PM – CLOSE

519 State Street, Santa Barbara

Saturday July 11

Pacific Pride Festival

Featuring a Performance by 80’s pop star Tiffany

Free Admission

11 AM – 7 PM

Chase Palm Park at the beach, Santa Barbara

Splash! Official Pride After Party Sponsored by 3 Olive Vodka

3 Olive Drink Specials from 7-9 PM, Dinner available, 805-962-7776

$15 Pre-sale tickets at the festival – $20 at the door

7 PM – CLOSE

SOhO, 1221 State Street No. 205, Santa Barbara

Sunday July 12

The Ultimate Pride Brunch

11 AM – 3 PM

At Epiphany, 21 W Victoria, Santa Barbara

Call 805-564-7100 for Reservations

Pride Closing Party at Red Room

Free Admission

9 PM – CLOSE

Wildcat Lounge, 15 W. Ortega St., Santa Barbara