BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Paradegoers are taking out their tape, and putting the last finishing touches on their floats for this years Burlington pride parade.
“I am just looking forward to being with my friends, spending time together in community basically.” said Roxy Bombardier of Burlington
For the last several years, Roxy Bombardier has been apart of the big celebration. This year, she decided to show off her bike skills as she supports her community.
“This very divisive time, where there is a lot of actions against queer and transgender people. We want to send a message that our community welcomes everyone.” said Bombardier
The Pride Center of Vermont has been hosting the parade for the last forty one years. This year, the line-up was filled with more than 90 floats and organizations walking down Main Street.
Officials say it’s one of the city’s biggest events, with over five thousand people flocking the streets. On-lookers say they were surprised to see the new route of the parade.
“Well usually we like Church Street. It use to go up Church Street, now it is really nice to be on Church Street with the parade. It’s been a long time.” said Amy Bernhardt of South Burlington
Organizers say it was tough to find a route for this year, but despite the construction downtown, it did not stop the LGBTQ community and allies from having a good time.
“Was hard with the city to find a spot that was both accessible for our community. We like something less than one mile with a low pitch going down the hill. We end at the water front. Luckily we got the route we like. Which is down Main Street. The upside of the construction is that Main Street is pretty blocked off.” said Kell Arbor of the Pride Center Of Vermont