Pride Preparation Checklist!
We know Central New York weather can be a fickle pickle! Check out our list of things to consider bringing, so you’re prepared for nonstop fun!
Sunscreen
It’s important to wear sunscreen, even if it’s overcast — Clouds do not actually block most UV rays! The festival is during peak sunlight times. Here is what the NYS Dept. of Health recommends: “Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on any exposed skin. Be sure it is at least SPF 15. Apply the sunscreen to dry skin 15-30 minutes before going outdoors. Re-apply it every two hours -- and after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.”
Source: health.ny.gov/environmental/tanning/sun_safety.htm
Hat with a brim
If you wear a baseball hat or a hat that doesn’t cover everything, see above! Some hats are now sold with SPF protection.
Sunglasses
Don’t forget protection for those peepers — You want to make sure you can see all the cool vendors and what’s going on at the stage. Here are some recommendations for what to consider when you buy sunglasses:
How to Choose the Best Sunglasses to Avoid Sun Damage - American Academy of Ophthalmology
Bug Repellant
Around this time of year, it gets muggy and buggy. Ticks have become more of a nuisance each year and mosquitos never seem to go away. You get treat your clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrinand and/or use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellent. If you are using repellant and sunscreen, put the sunscreen on first and then apply the repellant a little while after.
Good Walking Shoes
With a stage show, a traveling clown, 60 venders and yard games throughout the park, you will want to be wearing something comfortable on your feet for both walking and standing. Unless you’re in the drag show, we don’t advise heels!
Refillable Water Bottles!
Hydration is important — especially since July can be one of the hottest months. Bring your bottle filled initially and then if you need a refill, you can go to the information tent near the middle of the park.
Folding Camp Chair
There is music and drag artist performances throughout the entire fest. You may want to have a seat and stay a while!
Rain Gear
If there is a chance of rain, bring something light that can be shoved in a bag like a rain poncho or an umbrella.
Currency
The festival is free and vendors often give awesome freebie swag, but there will definitely be things you will want to buy. Some vendors will be selling their artisan wares, there will a raffle, and food trucks. Nobody has a good time when they are hangry! Or maybe you even want to donate to the Center so we can have an even more awesome Pride next year! Not every vendor may accept all forms of payment, so bring some cash, a credit card, and your smart phone in order to be able to pay for your delights!
A friend or 2 or 3…
Pride is always more fun when you are surrounded by the people that care about you the most. We don’t believe there will be any problems, but as a precautionary measure we also know there is safety in numbers. We are Stronger Together!
A Good Attitude!
Hope to see you all there!