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| - After going to Pride several years in a row, I figure it's finally time to write a review. I'll try to make it concise, since there's sooooo much going on.
The Good:
-The Parade... mostly. Some of the walkers make you wonder "Why?" but generally they're all there for a reason.
- The Camaraderie. So many of the LGBTQ community come together to celebrate our diversity.
- The Entertainment. Usually the "big names" are pretty decent entertainers, even if they can be a little dated. ie. Tiffany, En Vogue, Blake Lewis, Uh Huh Her (the last 2 aren't all that dated, fyi) and most of the kings and queens who perform are the best Phoenix has to offer. Most, not all, mind you.
- The Purpose. Most people don't know this but the proceeds from the festival help to fund things like the Phoenix Pride Scholarship Fund. Most of the drink stands that are run by The Men Of Charlies and other organisations benefit that organisation or charity. So it's more than just a booze fest, it's a booze fest with a purpose!
The Not-So-Good:
- The Heat. Yes, it's in April, but by April it's already really damn hot. Especially for the lack of shade at the festival.
- The Cost. $20 for a ticket to be accosted by vendors trying to squeeze more money out of the gays seems a little steep. It's basically the same vendors every year, nothing changes. I don't think a person needs that many rubber bracelets sporting a rainbow with "Wells Fargo" on it.
- The food/drinks. Same old same old, for the price of State Fair food. And there aren't that many food vendors. And VERY few options for those who are vegetarian/vegan, and considering how many of our community are vegetarian or vegan you'd think there'd be more.
- The Parking. Which is ridiculous. We usually end up parking at a nearby strip club and walking a few blocks, which sucks (see Heat above). There needs to be a better parking situation.
All in all it's not a bad festival, and it is actually the 4th largest Pride Festival in the country. I just wish there was more content, though they're trying really hard to put in more exhibits, like the Erotic Art and the Wedding Expo.
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