all images are copyright © 2006 by Utopia Asia. Please contact us for permission to reproduce. Bangkok celebrated its 8th annual pride festival topped off with a much-expanded public parade on November 5, 2006. This year, Thai lesbians were highly visible, both at the annual Pride in the Park on the preceding weekend and during the parade. Floats were beautifully decorated, many themed for the Loy Kratong festivities which fell on the same day. Carrying banners that read "Lady Love Lady is Natural" and "The Right to Love is a Human Right", the festival was also more visibly political than in years past and demanded increased attention from the press. Miss Gay Universe, Candi Stratton was in attendance, along with LGBT from throughout the region and around the world. Thai style was high style at the parade... Of course, mixed in with the fun were serious messages about protecting the health of the community. This designer diva is all about safety over styling (her condom carrying tote reads "L.V.")... Thousands lined Silom Avenue along with smiling tourists who enthusiastically welcomed the Bangkok queer community's colorful contribution to the Loy Kratong festival of lights. Bravo to the organizers! Even these two straight gals visiting from Hags-Upon-Kent seemed to get the message that Thailand welcomes everyone!

For images and a report from last year's Bangkok Pride festival, please click here