New York Gay Pride Week
New York Gay Pride Week is held each year in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots of 1969 which were the beginning of the modern Gay Rights movement. The 2013 edition kicks off on Friday, June 28th 2013 from 7 pm. to 10 pm at Hudson River Park's Pier 26 with a Pride Rally. The first Pride Rally was held when 500 people gathered for a “Gay Power” demonstration in Washington Square Park and the annual New York attraction has been growing in size and popularity ever since. Probably the most important part of the week is the March. The first March was held in 1970 and it has become one of the most important civil rights demonstrations in the country after having raised awareness about issues like the fight against AIDS and violence against members of the LGBT community. The March starts at noon on Sunday, June 30 at 36th St. & Fifth Ave and it ends at Christopher & Greenwich Streets. Although the March certainly takes on serious topics, it also meant to be a celebration of the gay community. The Grand Marshals of this year’s March will be Edith Windsor, Harry Belafonte and Earl Fowlkes. NYC Pride recognizes outstanding achievement and a panel of judges (located at the Reviewing Stand at Fifth Avenue and 8th Street) will evaluate participants to determine who best exemplifies the concept of the following March Awards: Best Use of Theme Awa
Best Marching Contingent Award Best Decorated Vehicle Award Best Musical Contingent Award Most Original Award While the March is going on, another New York attraction that occurs every year will be happening nearby (Hudson St. between Abingdon Sq. & W. 14th St.). Now in its 20th year, PrideFest is a LGBT street fair that combines vendors, entertainers and activities for a day of fun and celebration in the 
name of equality. This event is totally FREE and it generally attracts thousands of out-of-state visitors who are looking to grab a bite to eat or score some great Pride gear. For full details about all the events, see here. Even if you don’t feel like taking part in Pride Week or simply just want to take a break, there are plenty of other New York attractions to see. Get a chance to see what happens behind the scenes at one of the top TV networks in America by going on the NBC Studio Tour or, if you’re in the mood for another television-related attraction, the Gossip Girl Tour is an option. A trip to the Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side of Manhattan is also a must. Save up to 55% on admission to all the top New York attractions and tours with a Go New York City Card discount attractions pass. Save money and skip lines!