This beautiful oceanfront city's Pride weekend has grown into one of the largest Prides in the country. Thanks largely to Bill Hardt, it has also expanded into one of the biggest party weekends of the summer.
Every July I-405 turns into an "expressgay," as a caravan of Angelenos take the two-hour drive south. They, along with thousands of others from around the country and points beyond, want to experience for themselves a spectacular weekend lineup that encompasses three major events; Saturda...
This beautiful oceanfront city's Pride weekend has grown into one of the largest Prides in the country. Thanks largely to Bill Hardt, it has also expanded into one of the biggest party weekends of the summer.
Every July I-405 turns into an "expressgay," as a caravan of Angelenos take the two-hour drive south. They, along with thousands of others from around the country and points beyond, want to experience for themselves a spectacular weekend lineup that encompasses three major events; Saturday's Circuit Daze, Sunday's world-famous Zoo Party, and the closing Féte Accompli later that night.
These parties take over the city's biggest rooms with top Circuit stars spinning to full — and incredibly hot — crowds. The pacing of the parties is perfect for allowing plenty of quality time on the dance floor with just enough rest to enjoy shopping, sunbathing and sightseeing.
The crown jewel, the Zoo Party, has taken its place as one of the truly legendary events on the gay party calendar. The San Diego Zoo provides what must be one of the most dramatic backdrops for a dance party, straight or gay, in the world. The Zoo, which sprawls over 100 acres, is perhaps the most famous in the world and pioneered the concept of open-air, cageless exhibits that recreate animals' natural habitats.
Thousands of people enjoy music in a wondrously decorated open-air party space that includes several bars and plenty of clean washrooms — no waiting in lines and risk missing out on the entertainment! The party starts mid-afternoon and goes on right into the night, when the lighted decorations show off the venue to full advantage. Lots of guys come in animal outfits, although just-plain homo sapiens muscularis works just fine.
Circuit Daze takes over the Hall of Champions for a night of musical mayhem, courtesy of Circuit superstars Joe Gauthreaux and Alex Acosta. For the late-night closer, the aptly Féte Accompli (a pun on the French for "mission accomplished"), the best-loved gay DJ duo in the world, the one and only Rosabel, turn the House of Blues into the House of House ("House music," that is!).
Best of all, Hardt has donated some of the proceeds to local LGBT groups and AIDS service organizations. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised over the years, making these parties truly a reflection of the way we know how to celebrate Pride: having a great time and giving back to the community.
