Their Facebook boasts “NJ’s annual Gay Pride celebration at the Jersey shore. Parade steps off at noon (Main St and Cookman) Where: Asbury Park, NJ (festival grounds at 5th and Ocean) Jersey Pride - Sunday, June 3 Photo by Mark Brown NJ.com Jersey Pride was a place where I immediately felt welcomed into the glittery celebration. That’s what is so special about Pride season - it’s a time when we all center around love and acceptance. I went through the pavilion for my usual rum and coke and felt welcomed with open arms, even though I’m not familiar with the Jersey LGBTQ scene.
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In between the beach and Pride tents, there is a huge pavilion that is usually filled with tipsy, dancing gays bopping around. Last year, it was a mix of both and just before the storm came in, it was ideal swimming weather. Pride celebrations are known to happen in either swelteringly hot weather conditions or a thunder storm. But also right at a gorgeous beachfront! Last year, I went to Jersey Pride and in the midst of incredible music performances and stopping by vendors I meandered over to the beach and went for a dip.
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The best part about Jersey Pride is that it happens in Asbury Park - like the number one gay spot in New Jersey. It is one of two gigantic Pride events that happens in the Garden State. And Jersey Pride is the turn up of all turn ups. As we spend the month of June reflecting on all the work we’ve done to get here and all that is yet to be done, we also get to celebrate with one another. Pride, Pride, Pride! ` Tis the season, babes.