Gay, Lesbian Pride on Parade

Candace Gingrich, sister of House Speaker Newt Gingrich, will ride through the streets of Long Beach on Sunday as grand marshal of the 1996 Long Beach Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade, at 11 a.m. Sunday. A longtime advocate for women’s rights, Gingrich, who has a bachelor’s degree in sociology, became a spokesperson for lesbian and gay rights after her brother was elected.

But the parade is just one of the highlights of the weekend celebration, which is expected to draw thousands--as it has in the past--to Shoreline Aquatic Park. Deborah Harry, former lead singer of Blondie, will perform at a dance party slated for Saturday night at the Long Beach Convention Center. At the festival, disco divas CeCe Peniston (Saturday) and Evelyn Champagne King (Sunday) will headline the entertainment lineup at 8:15 p.m.

The festival is open to all--gays, lesbians, friends and families--and takes place both days, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. A variety of food, crafts, games and information booths are planned. Tickets, $12. Dance party Saturday, 10 p.m. ($25 at the door or through Ticketmaster, $20, [213] 480-3232). Information: (310) 987-9191.