By Jack Arnhold, Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – This Sunday, September 30th, thousands of people will gather at Copacabana beach for the 23rd annual LGBTI Pride Parade. The event is set to begin at midday, with three separate official parties happening throughout the day and into the evening.
The three official parties will all be running from 2PM-7PM. ‘Treta Festa’ (Partying) will be presenting a packed show with performances from Luísa Sonza, Funtastic, MC Nem, Armário de Saia and As Baphônicas, Gabily, Mc Pocahontas, and Lary. While, running concurrently, ‘Chá da Alice’ (Alice’s Tea) will have performances from Wanessa, Donas, and Lorena Simpson.
Also occurring at the same time will be the ‘Eclética’ (Eclectic) party, featuring Meninas do Rio, Vanessa Esplendorosa, DJ Gui Ferreira, DJ Fagner Foxx, and DJ Nicole Antunes. Last year’s parade was controversially the first parade not to receive funding from the city, due to Mayor Marcelo Crivella’s opposition to LGBTI pride.
Organizers are calling on everyone and anyone to attend, stating that “We count on the presence of all, to once again fight for our rights, respect and diversity. Together we can overcome this regression!”
The theme of this year’s gay pride parade, the organizers announce, is “Vote for ideas, not people. Vote for those who are committed to LGBTI causes!” They continue, “We want to awaken in the LGBTI community more engagement and participation in this political moment by choosing candidates who are committed to causes and struggles for respect and diversity. Come with us in this fight!”
For those who wish to continue partying, there will also be an official post-parade party at Street Lapa, which will also have an open bar. The main attraction of the night will be the singer Aretuza Lovi, plus DJ Marcelo Hausbich, and many others.
What: 23rd Parada do Orgulho LGBTI Rio 2018!
When: Sunday, September 30th; 9AM-8PM
Where: Praia De Copacabana, Avenida Atlântica, 22020-002 Rio de Janeiro
Entrance: Free