On the Outs

Your Guide To OutFest 2009

by Josh Middleton

[ lgbtq ]

Opening Workout

For the past nine years, 12th Street Gym trainers have led this 45-minute, cardio-dance routine, which will be packed with select gym members and spunky volunteers from the crowd. Leotards and headbands not required.

12:30 p.m., free, 13th and Locust streets.

Penis-Shaped Bagel Eating Contest

What began in the late '90s as a friendly competition between two people and their penis-shaped bagels has turned into a 12-year OutFest tradition. Held at three different times throughout the day, these challenges will feature a dozen contestants attempting to consume their phallic treats the quickest. The only rules: Participants can't use their hands, and swallowing is mandatory.

1:30, 2:30 and 3 p.m., free, 13th and Locust streets.

Pet Zone

The Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society, PETCO, the Animal Welfare Society of New Jersey and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals are hosting a pet adoption booth to place unclaimed canines into loving arms. If you decide to take one home, you can show off your new pooch at OutFest's pet show. Who knows? You may have a prize-winnin' bitch on your hands.

Noon-7 p.m., free, 12th and Walnut streets.

The Philadelphia Voices of Pride chorus and organists Peter Richard Conte and Wesley Parrott will perform in this haunting, pretty sanctuary to benefit the financially troubled Giovanni's Room, the oldest LGBTQ bookstore in the country. "This is more than just a bookstore. It's a communal place for people who are coming out," says Aquila Alexander, Giovanni's Room volunteer coordinator. "We provide resources and an opportunity to see other queer people in a safe space."

3 p.m., $20 donation, Church of St. Luke and the Epiphany, 330 S. 13th St.

Sun., Oct. 11, various times and locations, 215-875-9288, phillypride.org