It's time for Charlotte to go gay! And Pride Charlotte 2009 - one of the largest annual fests in the nation celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities - is bringin' in lots of entertainment. This year, like years past, you can expect to see long list of performers. But there's more to the fest than all this. In addition, it gives folks a time to come together to reflect on prejudices that still exist across the region and the world.
Check out the list below for information on events scheduled to go down during Pride:
SITTING PRETTY PRIDE ART NIGHT: Tonight artists unite for a special showcase of custom decorated chairs. The chairs will be for sale and there will be a silent auction. Refreshments will be served. For information or if you are an artist and would like to participate, email jonathan@pridecharlotte.com. July 22, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The Lesbian & Gay Community Center, 820 Hamilton St., Ste. B11 (part of the N.C. Music Factory complex). 704-333-0144. www.gaycharlotte.com.
COMMUNITY ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION: OUT IS IN AT THE WORKPLACE: To discuss both the benefits and risks letting your co-workers know your sexuality. Folks in the LGBT community will share their own experiences and all are invited to participate and ask questions during the discussion. July 23, 7 p.m. 9 p.m. The Lesbian & Gay Community Center, 820 Hamilton St., Ste. B11 (part of the N.C. Music Factory complex). 704-333-0144. www.gaycharlotte.com.
TAKEOVER AT PETRA'S: Pride Charlotte 2009 kick-off. July 24, 7 p.m.-12 a.m. Petra's Piano Bar, 1919 Commonwealth Ave.
FRONT RUNNERS PRIDE RUN: 4-mile run/walk through Uptown Charlotte. Hosted by Front Runners, a Charlotte LGBT running and walking club. For more information about Front Runners, see www.charlottefrontrunners.com. July 25, 10 a.m. Gateway Village, 800 W. Trade St.
PRIDE CHARLOTTE FESTIVAL 2009: This festival celebrates lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities with entertainment by Amy Steinburg, Brendan Velasquez, Crys Matthews, Joshua Klipp, Daniel Gray, Rodie Ray, Jill Austin Band, One Voice Chorus, Beledi Beat Dancers, The Bombshell & Mr. Red, Gay Men's Chorus of Charlotte and more, vendors, activities for children. Its also a time to reflect on prejudices that continue to exist across the region and world. July 25, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Gateway Village, 800 W. Trade St. www.pridecharlotte.com.
DETOUR TO PURE MUSIC, PURE DANCE, PURE FUN: Alcohol-free dance event with music by DJ Chris Taylor. 21 and up. July 25, 8 p.m.-12 a.m. $5. The Lesbian & Gay Community Center, 820 Hamilton St., Ste. B11 (part of the N.C. Music Factory complex). 704-333-0144. www.gaycharlotte.com.
PRIDE DAY AT THE US NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER: Head to the US National Whitewater Center to meet up with folks from Pride Charlotte who will be out socializing and enjoying the outdoors with activities like rafting and hiking. For a $5 off coupon for an AllSport Pass, click here. July 26, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. US National Whitewater Center, 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy. 704-391-3900. www.usnwc.org.