Houston has one of the largest and most visible gay communities in the country, a fact that often surprises outsiders who think of Texas as being quite conservative. If you need any evidence that Houston's gay scene packs plenty of punch, check out the Pride Festival and Parade, which takes place in late June (June 25 in 2011). This will be the 33rd anniversary of Houston's Gay Pride celebration, which typically draws more than 150, 000 participants and spectators.

Like many other cities that celebrate pride in June, Houston does so at this time in part to honor what many consider to be one of the foremost events in the history of lesbian and gay rights, New York City's Stonewall Riots, which commenced early in the morning on June 28, 1969 (making 2009 the 40th anniversary of this momentous occasion).

Details about Houston Gay Pride 2011 will be posted here as they become available - in the meantime, here's a look at last year's event:

During the days leading up to Pride, you can attend a number of related parties and gatherings. These include Pride Houston Rock the Runway Fashion Show, Dine With Pride restaurant nights on Wednesday nights throughout June, a Houston Pride Idol competition, and several other events - here's a full calendar of what you can expect.

The Houston Pride Festival takes place on Saturday, from 1 pm until 8 pm in the city's main gay neighborhood Montrose. It's Commonwealth Street and Yoakum Boulevard, just south of Westheimer Road. There's a main Pride Stage featuring performances by a range of prominent artists. There are also pop and other music performances on other stages, a food court, a Community Zone of some 200 local retail vendors and GLBT organizations, and a safe and secure Kids' Zone with fun activities. Admission to the festival is free.

More than 150, 000 spectators and 1, 000 participants take part in the Houston Pride Parade, also held on Saturday. This parade is unusual in that it takes place at night, following the Pride Festival - it commences at 8 pm and lasts until 11 pm. Festivities begin on Westheimer Road, at Dunlavy Street, and continues east along Westheimer for about a mile to Crocker Street.


Additionally, numerous gay bars as well as gay-popular restaurants, hotels, and shops have special events and parties throughout Pride Week. Check local gay papers and websites, such as Out Smart Magazine and HoustonGayGuide.com, for details. Also take a look at the excellent GLBT site produced by the city's official tourism organization, the Houston CVB.