PHOTOS: Rhode Island Pride After Dark

In 1976 about 75 people marched through downtown Providence. That small group in this small state are the roots of what would become the Rhode Island Pride. Now it's a daylong festival, held on Saturday on South Water Stree, that is capped by an Illuminated Nighttime Parade though downtown. The parade and its about 1,600 participants were cheered on this year by approximately 20,000 people, according to Kurt Bagley, president of Rhode Island Pride. For more information, check out prideri.com.

On the following pages, see photos by Jonathan Luke O'Brien (and visit his Facebook page here).

He wears his sunglassses at night.

Ballerinas in all shapes and sizes.

I love your hat.

The boy with the green hair.

Ms. Gulch drops in.

Evening wear appropriate for a nighttime parade.

On wings of pride, and maybe something else a little naughtier.

Miss and Mr. SCE give their official wave. Careful, don't try this at home, these are professionals

Like the Christopher Cross song.

The year's must-have wig.

A strapping young man.

Maybe a trip to Rhode Island is in order.

Gee, what a great idea: a nighttime parade. Romantic, no?

My, what big teeth you have.
Going green for Pride.

Warning: Beads ahead.

Go, daddy, go!

What did you wear to Pride? Oh, not much. A bathing suit, some spray paint, a smile.

Oh now stop that. It can't be that bad.

Out and proud.

Here's to the ladies who march.

Flag-waving, hand-holding pride.

Glowing with pride.

Dignitaries ride up top.

Working the barricades.

Pride on wheels.

Best Outfit, as voted by Advocate.com

But I don't want to go home, Glinda!

Congrats, gents.

Pride in your underwear.

Floating pride.

Okay, maybe this is the best outfit. No we're not sure.

Wickedly beautiful.