Listen. Pride is not a one-day event. Pride is a whole season, a whole vibe, a whole spiritual experience that requires preparation. If you follow me, you know I celebrate Pride year round and encourage you all to do it too! I've marched in parades. I've survived festival heat. I've cried real tears because of a performance or a speech or someone telling me that I've inspired them in some way to come out. However, I also remember my first Pride and how nervous I was.
So whether this is your first Pride or your fifteenth, I'm here to make sure you show up fully prepared, fully hydrated, and fully you.
Let's get into it.
1. Wear What Makes You Feel Like the Main Character
This is not the time for "maybe I'll just throw something on." Pride is your runway! And yes I will be blasting Lady Gaga and Doechii while getting ready every single time. Wear the colors. Wear the sparkles. Wear the things that you've been saving for a special occasion because this IS the occasion.
A few rules I live by:
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Comfort over everything. You will be on your feet for hours. Cute shoes that destroy your feet by noon are not the move. Trust me.
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Layers are your friend. Mornings can be cool, afternoons get hot, evenings get festive. Plan accordingly depending on where you are.
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Bring a bag you can actually carry. Crossbody. Fanny pack. Something hands-free so you can clack freely.
2. Your Pride Bag Checklist
Here's what actually needs to be in your bag.
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Water bottle (non-negotiable)
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Sunscreen (you do not want to be burnt after one day)
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Portable phone charger
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Cash (I know you don't want to bring it, but some places only take it)
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A light snack
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Your ID
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A fan or multiple fans (I say this is MANDATORY, but we'll get to this)
3. Yes, You Need a Clack Fan. Here's Why.
I'm not just saying this because I sell them. I'm saying this because I have been at Pride without a fan and I have been at Pride WITH a fan, and the difference is staggering.
A clack fan is:
Practical — It gets hot out there. Like, really hot. Parades, festivals, crowded streets, bars, wherever you are, you need airflow. A good clack fan keeps you cool and keeps you sane.
A conversation starter — I cannot tell you how many times someone has stopped me mid-parade because of a fan. It's an instant connection. People ask about it, compliment it, want to know where you got it (now you can tell them).
A statement — This is Pride. Everything you bring should say something about who you are. A fan that says "YOU MATTER" or "LOVE WINS" or "WE'RE STILL HERE" isn't just an accessory, it's a declaration.
A mood setter — There is something deeply theatrical and satisfying about dramatically unfurling a fan at the exact right moment. You know what I mean. You've seen it. You want to do it.
4. Which Fan Is Right for You?
Okay so now you want one (you're welcome) and you're wondering which one to get. Here's a little guide:
If you want to make a statement: Go for something bold with words. "BOLD. LOUD. PROUD." energy. The "You Matter" fan, the "Love Wins" fan, the "We're Still Here" fan, these are the ones that stop people in their tracks.
If you want something that glows: Some of our fans coming soon will be UV reactive, meaning they absolutely light up under black lights. Perfect for nighttime events, club nights, and any situation where you want to be seen from across the room.
If you want to give one as a gift: The "You're A Snack", "No More Hiding, Now I'm Shining", "I'm Glad You Stayed" or one of our bundle deals is the move. Multiple fans, multiple statements, one beautiful gift. Perfect for your Pride crew.
But honestly, there are so many great clack fans in the shop for Pride, so get what speaks to you.
5. Protect Your Energy
This one doesn't get talked about enough. Pride is joyful and Pride can also be overwhelming. Big crowds, lots of emotions, heat, and noise can be a lot for anyone, including the most extroverted among us.
Some things that help:
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Know your exit. Have a plan for if you need a break. A nearby coffee shop, a quiet side street, somewhere you can decompress for 10 minutes.
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Check in with your crew. Set a meeting spot in case you get separated. Don't rely entirely on your phone.
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Eat a real meal. Before you go out. Not just snacks. A real meal. Your body needs it.
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Give yourself permission to leave early. You don't have to stay until the very end to have had a meaningful experience. Honor what you need.
6. Document Everything (But Also Just Be Present)
Take the photos. Take the videos. Capture the moments you want to remember. And then put your phone down for a little while and just... be there. Feel it. Look around at all the people who showed up to be exactly who they are.
That's the part that sticks with you.
One Last Thing
Pride exists because people fought for it. People who are no longer here fought for it. The joy we get to experience is built on their courage.
So show up. Clack loud. Love on strangers. Cry a little. Dance a lot. And remember that every fan you carry, every color you wear, every "I see you" you offer someone, it matters.
See you out there. I'll be the one clacking.
— Emile 🪭
Shop Pride-ready clack fans at emilessnackshop.com
Free US shipping on orders $100+