Photo: Flickr/Elvert Barnes
By now, in many cities across the country, Gay Pride has come and gone. The streets have been cleaned of confetti and glitter, the trashcans emptied of water bottles once containing vodka and Gatorade, and your post-parade hook-up has finally gotten the hint and stopped calling. But just because Pride 2012 is now only a rainbow-tinted memory doesn’t mean you should put away your sequined jockstrap. There are a whole slew of gay festivals and parties for you to get blotto and laid enjoy. From coast to coast, we’ve got the guide for keeping the party going until the end of summer.
Sand Blast Weekend (July 20-22, Asbury Park, NJ): Okay, we know, it’s on the Jersey Shore but we promise they’re won’t be a Snooki in sight. This gay haven hosts one of the best beach parties on the East Coast. Though Lost at Sea, the Sand Blast Beach Party, and the Riptide Pool Party & Sand Blast Tea Dance get top billing, it’s a good idea to take in some of the smaller events. From the Drag Race & Handbag Toss, to beginners surfing lessons, to a leather cigar party, you’ll find something that caters to your tastes. The GTL rule still applies.
Chicago Market Days (August 11-12, Chicago, IL): Market Days is the biggest street fair in the Midwest and one of the best in the country. Spanning six blocks in the gay enclave of Boystown, the two-day fair is host to food venders, merchants, and big name performances. With headliners like Karmin, Sheena Easton, Olivia Newton John, and The Pointer Sisters and only a suggested donation of $8, you won’t find a better value this summer.
Provincetown Carnival (August 12-18, Provincetown, MA): P-Town is a must for any summer gay getaway. The quaint gay village at the tip of Cape Cod hosts some of the best gay summer events, and their version of Brazilian Carnival is no exception. This year’s space odyssey themed week features dance parties, boat cruises, craft fairs, and drag bingo, and will wear out even the most hardened circuit queen.
Tropical Heat (August 16-19, Key West, FL): If South Beach has been your only SoFlo party destination, you’ve been missing out; Key West definitely knows how to party and they go all out for Tropical Heat. The four-day marathon of parties has a soiree for every bent. So whether your bag’s togas by the pool, drag shows, or fetish nights, they’ve got you covered… or uncovered; many of the events are clothing optional.
New Orleans’ Southern Decadence (Aug. 29- Sept. 3, New Orleans, LA): Head down to the Big Easy to end your summer on a high note. This weeklong party is the biggest gay event in the city and one the largest parties besides Mardi Gras. The Labor Day weekend celebrations include block parties, club nights, and, of course, a parade.
