The 42^nd annual San Francisco Pride Festival will kick off this weekend Saturday June 23^rd and ends with the parade Sunday the 24^th. So if you have plans for activities near Market Street lets hope they involve floats  and mass celebrations.. The San Francisco Pride parade is the largest gathering of LGBT people and allies in the nation. This year’s Pride Parade’s theme will be “Global Equality.” Senator Leland Yee, San Francisco Sheriff’s department and the SF police department Pride Alliance will all be participating in the parade with many others.

            And of course there are the parties!  If you’re looking for the most upscale party you could head to the VIP party which will be held in the Rotunda of City Hall. Music and food from local restaurants will be provided, and most importantly an open bar! As well as a special performance from Zumanity of Cirque de Soleil. For the more causal observer there’s seating in Grandstands which you can buy online, no promises you don’t catch an eye full of the ever present naked people though.

            If you’re feeling really adventurous on Sunday there’s an area of the festival called Leather Alley, which features fetish and BDSM oriented booths, so bring your copy of 50 Shades of Grey and brush up on some new things to try or just come and support a good cause, and don’t forget to stop by for Alice’s Summer thing in Golden Gate Park Sunday for some free fun and music!

            Amber Ortiz

            Staff writer