The Dos and Don’ts of Attending a Pride Parade

The Metro Manila Pride Parade is always a highly anticipated event. Colorful, festive, intense, and defiant all at once, Pride is unlike any other march on the streets. A tradition that started in the USA in 1970 (commemorating the tumultuous Stonewall uprising), it’s a remembrance of the past and a plea for a more hopeful future.

Because of its history and nature, any Pride parade warrants (and begets) a certain reverence and irreverence. You gotta be up for a day of chaotic fun, but you can’t go into it blind or, worse, willfully ignorant. Whether you’re attending as part of the LGBTQ+ community or a straight ally, you might want to check out these dos and don’ts before heading out (no pun intended).

As with any event, always be mindful of rush hour traffic. Leaving one hour before you’re supposed to be somewhere is not advisable. For the Pride parade, consider making your way to the venue in the early morning (as most attendees do!). Doing this gives you a chance to scope the scene for nearby toilets and coffee shops, and mingle with other early birds. Oh, and wear your most comfortable shoes – you’ll be walking all day and, most likely, walking home.

Communications professional Genesis Santos recommends bringing extra clothes and a face towel, on top of wearing comfy clothes and shoes. “It’s a march and seats aren’t always guaranteed. Malamang rarampa! But of course, you can also wear whatever you want. It is Pride, after all,” Genesis shares. 

The rules for taking photos of strangers at a Pride parade are murky. It’s a vibrant event full of interesting people dressed in the most eye-catching outfits. Many of them expect to be photographed but don’t assume all of them do. When in doubt, stick to taking pictures of your group or the crowd. Always ask permission before photographing individuals and sharing on social media.

There will be sun. There will be sweating. There will be alcohol. And there won’t always be water! Writer Maddy Teh shares that restaurants can get crowded, so it’s wise to come prepared with a full water bottle and snacks. Better yet, start replenishing your hydration levels days before the event.

Look, feel, and smell your best all day by showering before heading out. Use a refreshing, lightweight shampoo like Sunsilk Smooth and Manageable Shampoo to keep your hair shiny, bouncy, and smelling great. Don’t leave the house without applying Rexona Advanced Brightening + Anti Stain Deodorant Roll-On, which will keep your armpits dry and your fabulous Pride outfit stain-free. Finally, brush your teeth with closeup Red Hot Toothpaste for fresh breath and the confidence to smile with pride.

If you’re a straight ally, acknowledge that attending Pride means entering a safe space that LGBTQ+ people didn’t always have. This is a privilege that you can use thoughtfully by understanding the essence of the march and keeping an open mind. If you’re only going to gawk at people, get drunk, or appease your FOMO, stay at home.

Learning and development professional Pao Consunji says, “Be in a protest mindset. Yeah, we party and celebrate but the core message is visibility – to be visible in a world that continually shuts us out. But also, be in your best mood and be positive towards everyone. Don’t let anyone dim your light.”

A gay rights parade is no place for haters. It’s where the LGBTQ+ community can be “out and proud,” which includes dressing, acting, and most of all, loving authentically. So, focus on spreading love, leave your judgment at the door, and don’t be so hard on yourself either. Enjoy the day and let others do the same.

Want to support LGBTQ+ issues? Writer and photographer Michael Rebuyas says, “Listen to the speakers!” He adds, “Pride events are more than just pabonggahan. Community organizers and activists are often invited to shed light on important issues about the community.”

Attending your first Pride parade can be intimidating, but it’s also your chance to rally for a good cause. Beyond parties and outfits, Pride is a community coming together to be themselves. LGBTQ+ or not, remember that when you raise the Rainbow Flag, and you can do no wrong.