How to Enjoy a Gay Pride Festival in Austin, Texas

Austin is a little bastion of the Northeast surrounded by a whole lot of Texas. The residents are eclectic, but generally very welcoming of diversity. The home of a number of gay-pride festivals, many consider Austin one of the most tolerant cities in the South.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Costume
• Computer with Internet access
• Camera
• Accommodations
• Event schedule
• Map of Austin

1. Choose a festival. The main event is the Pride Parade, which takes place in June. There are a number of smaller gay-pride and gay-friendly events throughout the year. Find the right one to fit your goals.
2. Pack. Austin enjoys warm but pleasant weather. While you can plan on air conditioning for much of your stay, take sun screen and sunglasses anyway, especially if you'll be participating in a parade. Bring a costume if you like.
3. Get there. Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The city is serviced by several of the major carriers, as well as Air Mexico and a number of discount airlines. There's a limited number of direct flights, but as long as you're willing to make a connection, you won't have a problem.
4. Find lodging. The dozen or so gay-friendly bed and breakfasts are likely to fill up quickly for the Pride Parade, so reserve a room early. You can find a list of gay-friendly accommodations online at LambdaResorts (see Resources below).
5. Plan your days. The Pride Parade posts a schedule of events on its Web site (see Resources below), as do most other Austin festivals.
6. Enjoy the local sights. Austin has several gay bars, and several sponsor the local gay-pride events. Among these are Charlie’s Austin and Rain on 4th.
7. Have a great time. Austin will be hopping for the Pride Parade.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a camera.
• Practice safe sex. Always.