It might not be obvious to the casual observer, but LGBT leaders and organizations have played a crucial part in the Philadelphia Easter Promenade in its 85-year history.
“Are they carrying rainbow flags? No. But they’re still having fun and being as gay as they can be,” said Henri David, who has marched at the head of the promenade since 1981. He also throws the annual Halloween Ball, a popular masquerade for the LGBT community.
This year’s promenade steps off at 12:30 p.m at Fifth and South streets. The promenade ends about 45 minutes later down South Street. It’s free to attend and includes candy for the kids. Activities will continue at a stage at Second and Lombard streets until 2 p.m.
Franny Price, executive director of Philly Pride Presents, which stages the annual Pride and OutFest events, has organized the promenade for several years. She enlisted volunteers from The Attic Youth Center four years ago to dress up as rabbits and perform the bunny hop dance. Alyssa Mutryn, director of development for The Attic, said about seven youth will participate this year.
“It’s fun for our youth,” Mutryn said. She noted they don’t carry a banner for the organization, but they like to engage the kids on the street for the holiday and the start of spring.
The Philadelphia Freedom Band also joined the lineup a few years ago.
“All down South Street, we encourage people to join us in the bunny hop,” David said. “I do everything I can to keep it open and wild and fun.”
This year, there is a new competition to award the person who has the best-decorated bicycle. The competition also awards prizes for best-dressed girls and boys in various age groups, best-dressed woman and man, best-dressed family and pet, best Easter bonnet and best South Street Razzle Dazzle.
Philadelphia City Councilman Mark Squilla, who represents the First District, including the Gayborhood, will serve as one of the celebrity judges.
Specials for Easter brunch will be offered at the following restaurants in the neighborhood: Bridget Foy’s, Ela, Me N Mo Meatballs and More and Twisted Tail. Regular menus will be available at Brauhaus Schmitz and Pizzeria Stella.
For more information on the promenade, visit www.southstreet.com or call 215-413-3713.
