The state of Michigan, which has several cities with sizable gay scenes (Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor) as well as arguably the Midwest's most popular gay resort community, Saugatuck, celebrates its Gay Pride Rally and Festival in mid-June (Saturday, June 13, in 2009). The festival takes place in Michigan's capital city, Lansing, but it draws some 15,000 spectators and participants from all over Michigan and the Midwest. In 2008, Michigan Pride celebrated its 20th anniversary.
Here's a quick look at what you can expect at Michigan Pride 2009:
The Michigan Pride Festival runs from 11 am to 7 pm on Saturday, at Lansing's Adado Riverfront Park and includes vendors and booths, food stations, an open-air bar, and performances by a number of musicians and bands - this year the entertainment lineup includes Barefoot Grin, Feloni, the Perry Twins, Barbara Payton, Kung Fu Diesel, and Aaron Carl.
At noon, the Michigan Pride March proceeds from the festival at Riverfront Park to the Michigan State Capitol grounds, where the Michigan Pride Rally then kicks off at 1:30 on the capitol grounds.
Of course, additionally, numerous gay bars as well as gay-popular restaurants, hotels, and shops have special events and parties throughout Pride. Check local gay papers, such as Metra Magazine and Between The Lines/Pride Source for details.
