Cleveland Pride is here — a week late!

The third Saturday in June is traditionally our weekend to be out and proud, but our Columbus neighbors to the south switched to that date for the second year in a row. So to avoid a logjam of partying ‘mos, we’re pushed back to this Saturday, June 26. (Of course, now we conflict with Chicago and New York ...)

What do you need to know to take part? And what will Spangle’s awesome giveaways be this year? (Hint — one is pictured right nearby.)

Since several Spanglers used to run the Pride show, read on for our insider’s take.

*     *     *

Parade :: Lineup takes place on West Third Street south of St. Clair Avenue. Step-off is at noon (so, seriously, don’t be a douche and show up at 11:55 a.m. Nothing is more aggravating for organizers). The parade winds north on West Third, east on Lakeside Avenue, and north on East Ninth Street to Voinovich Park (the festival site).

For spectators, the biggest crowds begin at the “Free Stamp” at the corner of Lakeside and East Ninth, and continue down to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. If you’re organizing a large group of watchers, why not line the area at Malls B and C? No doubt paraders would love some cheering early on, especially if any protestors show up.

This year’s grand marshals are Gay Games organizers the Cleveland Synergy Foundation, and deservedly so.


Festival :: The action gets going at noon and goes through 9 p.m. There’s a rally once the parade arrives, with a theme of “Unity Through Diversity.” Yeah, as if you care — most importantly, the beer garden will be open for business, and surely the rockingest place in all of Voinovich Park. (And since it's going to be sunny and perfect, boys and girls alike should be scantily clad.)

The suggested donation is $10-$20, so c’mon — give at least $10. Cleveland Pride is a nonprofit, and this thing doesn’t magically happen without support. You wouldn't believe how many of your fellow LGBTers are cheap as hell.

Look for Spangler and paparazzo Bob Olayas, who will be shooting our exclusive photo galleries throughout the day, for your chance at online fame.


Entertainment :: This year is a decidedly local affair. In fact, outside of a couple of drag queens and Bella Sin, we haven’t heard of anyone. (The rundown is here.) Local music lovers, take this as your cue to discover some new acts. Or, you know, there’s always that beer garden …


Vendors :: The usual suspects — from Equality Ohio to the LGBT Community Center to the Stonewall Democrats to church after church after church — will be in attendance. But best of all, Spangle will be there! And we’re pretty certain we have the best giveaways.

Everyone who signs up for the Spangle e-newsletter will win a Spangle Weepul, Spangle Magic 8 Ball, or Spangle tote bag (at least as long as quantities last). You might even get your hands on last year’s super-hot Spangle dog tags or magnets (not that we ordered way too many back then). Meet your fave Spanglers and find us along the diagonal sidewalk as you enter Voinovich Park.

We’ll see you there! For additional details, visit www.clevelandpride.org.

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written by amber , June 27, 2010

i didnt even know this magazine existed until i came to Pride. i'm from wayne county, ohio where not everyone is exactly accepting of my sexuality. it's great to find a local magazine that openly supports who i am.
also, i saw your stand and i have to say that i love what i won.

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