SALT LAKE CITY -- The Utah Pride Festival is happening this weekend, and it began Saturday with a 5K run.
Participants in the race ran past the State Capitol and City Creek Canyon before finishing at Grove Park, and they said the run was a great way for people to come and show support for friends and family.
Runner Christa Ostler said the event was larger than it was when she attended last year.
"Salt Lake has a great gay community,” she said. “We have tons of supporters out here. There are so many people here. I was surprised. I ran it last year, and there were quite a few people here, but it seems like word is getting out and everyone is here this year and it is so much fun."
The festival gates opened at 3 p.m. in Washington Square, and the celebrations will continue through Sunday. The theme for this year’s event is “Gotta Be Real…Equality.”
About 20,000 people are expected to attend the festival and show their support for the LGBT community. Festivities include music, food, entertainment, and a parade on Sunday.
For more information about the festival, visit their website.
