Juan Zapata and Vincent Roth express the general sentiment of the weekend following the Supreme Court ruling. Credit: Chip Weiner
Juan Zapata and Vincent Roth express the general sentiment of the weekend following the Supreme Court ruling. Credit: Chip Weiner
St Pete Pride was loud and energetic this year. It always is. There was love and celebration and pride in the air. There always is. But this year's event felt even more jubilant, because of the ruling the day before from the U.S. Supreme Court that the Constitution guarantees a right to same-sex marriage. It couldn't have come at a better time… right in the middle of this annual LGBT party.
Melissa DeJesus exhibits some of the free spirit dominating this year’s Pride event with a “Kiss Me I’m Gay “sign. Credit: Chip Weiner
A block party in the Grand Central District kicked off Saturday's festivities at 5 p.m. An illuminated parade followed at sundown. Some news reports numbered those in attendance at upwards of 250,000.
Larry Biddle (left), one of three St. Pete Pride Parade Grand Marshals, and husband David Warner, Editor-in-Chief of Creative Loafing. Credit: Chip Weiner
The start of the parade brought the thunder of dozens of bikers sporting rainbow flags. Credit: Chip Weiner
Aida Morales of Kissimmee made her own headdress for the celebration. Credit: Chip Weiner
Not everyone was enthusiastic about the Supreme Court’s decision. But despite the promises of hellfire, signs of love took precedence. Credit: Chip Weiner
Support for same-sex marriage came in all forms, including this woman who is proud of her two moms (who could not attend). Credit: Chip Weiner
Members of the Libertarian Party of Pinellas County marched in the parade with their leader wearing an increasingly controversial Confederate flag on his shirt. Credit: Chip Weiner
The party and high energy continued on Sunday with a street festival featuring art, music, performers, and over 350 exhibitors.
Dancers from Competitive Edge give a street performance on Sunday. Credit: Chip Weiner
Heat ruled the day, bringing out all kinds of devices for keeping cool, like these small misting fans. Credit: Chip Weiner
Exhibitors gave away a lot of swag (and other things) during the Street Fest. Credit: Chip Weiner
The Grand Central District was a sea of rainbow-hued humanity. Credit: Chip Weiner
