Fabulous highlights of West Hollywood's Gay Pride Parade 14th June 2009 - Part four...

As you can see from the three previous days of Parade photos from this year's WEHO Gay Pride, there were lots of sights to catch on camera.

I'd heard a rumour that the Parade was 'toned down' this year because of the additional media attention it would garner in light of Proposition 8 passing and the gay community's efforts to repeal it, so that we could all appear more 'normal' and 'acceptable'.

Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence

If this is the case it's such a shame that our energy, creativity and fabulousness has to be reigned in, because regardless of what some ill-informed Californians may think, we're not all sexual deviants, just everyday people who want to share the same equal rights as everyone else.

I absolutely love the 'dragged up' Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence with all their fabulous costumes and confident attitude.

Hot Parade dancers

So far in my coverage of West Hollywood's Gay Pride Parade 2009 I've showcased the fantastic floats, wonderful entertainers, the various modes of transport and just some of the fabulous people in this year's Parade, so today here are some more of the colourful characters that make Pride celebrations so unique and vibrant.

Pleasure Chest float

Just look at the imagination that went into these 'under the sea' costumes.

It was one of the most original and fun groups in the Parade and its always so inspiring to see the effort that people put into their costume designs.

How can these costumes not put a smile on your face?

It's only my second West Hollywood Gay Pride Parade, but I do love the whole spectacle of the event and how it's so inclusive, with all my neighbours young and old and local families lining the streets to watch the colourful procession. I really does give me hope for the future.

Mr, Miss and Ms Gay Pride 2009

The Parade always features such a wide variety of groups and individuals, from charities and support groups to gay parents and cycling clubs, marching bands, bars and night clubs, plus representatives from other neighbourhoods like Long Beach and Las Vegas.

Proudly celebrating 30 years of the Gay Freedom Band L.A.

AIDS Walk L.A.

Gay housing for the elderly float

Long Beach Gay and Lesbian float

On the day you'll also find a diverse collection of all genders, young and old, gay and straight.

Gay and straight alliance network marchers

Last float in the Parade

Plus there's also those willing to dress up and entertain the crowds to support a worthy cause.

Best in Drag Aid for Aids float

From Drag Queens to Dragons...

And there's always someone present amidst the music and spectacle to whip up the crowd, make everyone laugh and get them cheering the Parade participants along the route.

Keeping the carnival spirit alive

Entertaining the onlookers in style

I'm so proud that we come in many colours of the rainbow and are not afraid to show it...