Here are some things you may not already know about Long Beach: This city in southern Los Angeles County (just 20 miles south of L.A. proper) has a population of about 465,000, making it among the top 40 largest cities in the nation (bigger than Kansas City, Minneapolis, and many others), and the seventh-largest in California (it's just behind Fresno and Sacramento). It's also home to a sizable, dynamic gay and lesbian population, and in 2013 (set for the weekend of May 18 and 19), the city celebrates the 30th Long Beach Gay and Lesbian Pride. This two-day event, with its draw of some 80,000 participants and 200 floats in its parade, has become one of the largest Gay Pride celebrations in America - big crowds are expected this year. GLBT Pride in Long Beach is one of the biggies, and it's a terrific time to acquaint yourself with a gay-friendly that city that, frankly, doesn't get as much press as it deserves.
Book rooms and compare rates on hotels in Long Beach during Gay Pride.
Additionally, numerous gay bars as well as gay-popular restaurants, hotels, and shops have special events and parties throughout Pride Weekend. Check local gay papers, such as the Orange County and Long Beach Blade as well as the Long Beach Community Business Network/Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, for details. Also take a look at the useful Long Beach CVB site, a handy resource for general travel planning.
