Chesapeake Pride set for Aug. 4

‘We take pride in having something for everyone, including a protected area for swimming and a play area for families with kids.’ (Washington Blade photo by Pete Exis)

The Chesapeake Pride Festival will take place at picturesque Mayo Beach on the Chesapeake Bay in Edgewater on Aug. 4 from 12-6 p.m., rain or shine.

Swimming in the bay, the beach, stage acts, drag shows, vendors from a variety of LGBT/friendly companies and organizations, food, beverages, including beer and wine are all part of a planned day of fun in the sun and pride. And for those who do not want too much sun, there are plenty of shaded areas to enjoy the day.

Among the attractions, the Straight Eights-Lambda Car Club, an LGBT group, will feature its collection of vintage classic automobiles at the festival, which is a must-see for classic car enthusiasts.

“This year’s entertainment will be as fabulous as last year,” said Stormy Vain who organizes the drag acts. “We are adding a lip-sync contest for the entertainers to enter as well as the first-ever Drag Queen Potato Sack Race that will be held on the beach after the drag show.”

The line-up includes Stormy Vain, Gracie Freebush, Marketta Minett, Shawanna Alexander, Veronyka Wynters, Marshall Roberts, Ada Buffet, Chanel van Cartier Couture, and Mattie Lamar.

“2012 will be our best Pride yet! As always we’ll have great music and a fab drag show plus a few surprises,” said Kim Hinken, chair of the planning committee. “With this being a historic year for LGBT equality and a huge election year, community events like Chesapeake Pride Festival are more important than ever before. The planning committee has worked very hard to put together a Pride festival like no other. We hope everyone will join us as we celebrate Pride in the community.”

John Petrosillo, the festival’s advertising chair agreed. “This year’s festival brings the usual great selection of vendors, live entertainment, food, beverages and fun. Among others, we are pleased to have sponsors Bud Light and Barefoot Wine returning this year. Our drag show will be better than ever, concluding with none other than a potato sack race on the beach.

“Our main stage will feature both new artists this year as well as some popular returning favorites. We take pride in having something for everyone, including a protected area for swimming and a play area for families with kids. Mayo Beach is a beautiful setting and we are thrilled to be there again this year.”

Park rules dictate that no bottles, cans, food or coolers are allowed outside your vehicle. Pets are not permitted.

Visit chesapeakepridefestival.org or facebook.com/ChesapeakePride for more information.