More than 40,000 people are expected to attend OutFest this weekend, said Philly Pride Presents Executive Director Franny Price.
The 27th-annual event will feature more than 150 vendors and a food court with more than 15 food vendors.
“Every intersection has something different going on,” Price said, noting there will be attractions such as a mechanical bull, rock-climbing, games and main-stage entertainment. At least 14 individuals and groups will perform on stage at 13th and Locust streets.
“They all have their own identities so that’s always exciting,” Price said of the performers.
Additionally, this year will mark the return of onstage contests, including the high-heel race and hula-hooping.
“Everybody loves the contests. The penis-shaped bagel-eating contest is 22 years old this year,” Price said of one of the more popular competitions. “It started out with eight people doing it at a time. Now we have to do 10 at a time, four different times.”
In addition to the competitions, OutFest will also honor several individuals with awards. Molassa Jones and Tina Montgomery will be crowned Mr. Philly LGBT Pride and Miss Philly LGBT Pride, respectively. Additionally, five individuals and one organization will be honored at an awards ceremony:
- Gilbert Baker National OutProud Award: Michael P. Williams
- Jaci Adams OutProud Transgender Award: Tenika Watson
- OutProud Award: Bread & Roses Community Fund
- OutProud Couple Award: Ashley Coleman and Dena Underwood
- OutStanding Youth Award: Alex Phillips
However, even though the award winners are aware they are being honored, there are still surprises in store for them.
“We like to surprise them with somebody personal or significant in their life who presents them with the awards,” Price said.
While the annual event is a time for celebration, Price noted another perk.
“OutFest is a huge networking day,” she said. “It’s probably the largest networking day for our community.”
Additionally, Price said, it’s the perfect celebration of National Coming Out Day.
“Everybody loves OutFest,” Price said. “It’s a Coming Out Day event. Coming out is being true to yourself. LGBT people should be out and proud and have a good time.”
OutFest will take place noon-6 p.m. Oct. 8 along 12th and 13th streets, between Walnut and Spruce.