Everyone in town, it seemed, was at Pride in the Park last Saturday. Even the Seattle sun made an appearance, choosing to come out just in time for the event. By the middle of the day, a line of traffic stretched down Roy Street from Capitol Hill's Volunteer Park as everyone made their way to the festivities.
Vendors traveled from all over Seattle to demonstrate their support with rainbow flags, face paint, and a whole lot of bubbles. Notable ones included T-Mobile, with its iconic pink tent; the Seattle Mariners, who were giving away stylish white and rainbow fanny packs; Overlake Medical Center; and QFC, which brought water bottles, as well as rainbow fruit snacks and applesauce for all the hungry Queers to munch on.
Pride in the Park was the perfect family event. Parents came with their children — humans and dogs — decked out in the most festive attire. Kids ran around with bubbles, streamers, and rainbow ribbons, only adding to the gaiety. Some children even brought their parents as allies, bravely attending their first Pride events together.
Activist groups like PFLAG and Mama Dragons also set up booths, handing out information to members of the LGBTQ+ community and their loved ones. Both organizations aim to support families of Queer people by offering community outlets and mental health resources.
Taking place just above the soon-to-be renovated amphitheater, Pride in the Park featured plenty of good music. The morning kicked off with some of the hottest Queer anthems played by DJ Kween Kaysh.
Later, a performance for the youngest attendees began: drag queen story time, hosted by the always fabulous Cookie Couture, who let all the little ones know that dressing up is for everyone.
There was plenty to do at Pride in the Park. Some vendors set up arts and crafts stations, including a dog-painting booth. The Seattle Public Library provided a book give-away. CHEER Seattle gave performances and danced along with some of their youngest admirers. Rain City Rock Camp set up an "instrument petting zoo" for kids to get some hands-on experience with different types of musical instruments.
Across the way from the booths, live music filled the early summer air as musicians took to the stage to perform for those sprawled out on the lush grass.
One performer Seattleites were excited to see was local singer Jeanie Rak, who opened the music portion of the event. Rak, who used to be a Pike Place busker, has quickly become a recognizable face, having released a new EP earlier this year.
Other performers at the event included drag duo LUChi, folk singer Carly Ann Calbero, local rapper Taylor Elizza Beth, R&B singer Morgan Britt, energetic drag queen Hot Pink Shade, punk artist Dark Smith, and headliner Fly Moon Royalty.
Pride in the Park was the perfect kick-off to Pride month. After two years of staying at home, people were clearly ready to come out and celebrate.