What Makes A "Gay Day"
An OFFICIAL EVENT?

The most important point to remember is that these events are all open to the public. The whole idea is to create a 'Gay Safe Space' where Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Questioning people, their friends, families and supporters can be themselves and just have fun.

One day, we will all be treated equally and fairly, simply as human beings. Until then, we are going to Get OUT and have fun at these social, Gay Day-styled events.

These events are open to, and sponsorship of, and participation in these events, by area GLBTQI organizations is STRONGLY encouraged. The more of us that participate, the more fun we'll all have!

Who attends these events? Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Questioning people of all ages, parents and their children, youth groups and adults of all ages, and of course, our friends and supporters.

Is It An Event?

Simply, if someone picks a date, tells people to show up at a specific location, and they do, then an event "happens".


Is it a REAL Event?

In reality, events do not have to be "officially recognized" by the park or facility, in order for the event to occur and be a success. Though the likelyhood of an event becoming very successful does increase if the event becomes an officially recognized event.

For example, Gay Day At Walt Disney World in Orlando is celebrating 15 years in 2005, and is still not "officially recognized" by Walt Disney World. This event is still considered a "show-up-and-bring-your-friends" event.

Although, the fact that Walt Disney World rents out portions of its facilities to various Gay Day sponsors for special after hours dances and concerts, could be interpreted as making the overall "Gay Day At Walt Disney World" an "officially recognized event".

It's OFFICIAL If...

As for events specifically planned and organized
by the folks at Out In The Park...

The event needs to be recognized and acknowledged by the park or facility where the event is held. And in a manner that is welcoming to the event attendees.

Simply, they know we are coming,
and they are ready for us!


As for the events planned and organized by the folks at Out In The Park, if we label an event as an "OFFICIAL EVENT", then we have been in direct contact with the park or facility concering the event, and one or more of the following conditions exist:

• The park or facility offers special admission discounts to attendees.
  This can be by either offering printed or web coupons to redeem on the day of the event, or by offering special advance sale tickets to attendees at the park, online or through an authorized ticket agent.
  
  
• The park or facility is able to offer private catered meals to event attendees. In most cases seating is limited, and advance purchase is required, see specific Get OUT! events for more details.
  
  
• Special event-centric functions or accommodations. Examples would include use of a specially designated area for a festival, fair or concert made available to event attendees.
  
  
• The park or facility offers other special discounts (such as discounts for food or gift vendors), or other special souvenier gifts for attendees.
  
  
• The park or facility lists and promotes the event on their facility's "Special Events Calendar" (printed and/or online).
  
  

* This is not a complete list, but simply a few examples. We are always open to more ideas.

Need more information? Email us at Info at OutInThePark. Project100.org