On Tuesday evening, thousands watched the annual 17th Street High Heel Race. The race is a tradition—now in its 38th year—that is held on the Tuesday before Halloween.
Contestants dazzled spectators in the Dupont Circle neighborhood with extravagant costumes, from many a Lady Liberty (at least one painted fully green) to a literal dressing cabinet. Whatever the costume, every racer ran in heels.
The event began in 1986 on Halloween as “a friendly wager between drag queens,” who were racing between bars in heels, according to Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office, which hosted the event. Now, the race reflects DC’s vibrant LGBTQ culture.
Festivities included music by DJ Alex Love, a drag performance, and live acts by a variety of DC musicians, artists, and performers. Those joining the race could also participate in the “annual costume contest,” which features categories such as “Best Heels” and “Most DC.”
In June, DC hosted WorldPride, “A major success for our community, movement, and city, and now we get to continue showcasing how DC does Pride every October at the High Heel Race,” Japer Bowles, Director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs, said in a statement. “Surrounded by thousands of community members and allies, I’m reminded of DC’s unwavering commitment to being a welcoming city where LGBTQIA+ people are not just accepted, but celebrated.”
Runners took to the start line at 9 PM, racing from P Street to S Street. The winner: Lady Liberty herself, who, after their victory, told FOX5, “This is America. Land of the free. Home of the brave. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of fabulousness.”
Here are some of the scenes from last night:
