Drag shows, operas, mock weddings and a hot body contest? If this sounds like a great time to you then you would have enjoyed Shanghai’s first Gay Pride Week.

This is a huge event for China as homosexuality was only decriminalized in 1997. Of course some tension exists between local authorities and the gay community which has led to various cancellations of gay pride activities. But this event was able to go on without much trouble and one of the organizers of the event said that it was the right time to do it. Not only did this spectacular event added to the growing gay scene in China, it gave Shanghai’s already lively night life something to celebrate.

There’s even a Gay Triangle of bars located in the French Concession neighborhood of Shanghai. The triangle is made up of Eddy’s, Shanghai Studios, and Transit Lounge. Each bar has its own unique style from Chinese exotica to hip dancefloors to sophisticated and intimate surroundings.

Lesbians don’t have as many options as men do but there are a few places that offer them their own exclusive nights. Shanghai Studio gives lesbians the last Saturday of each month to mingle and have fun. Tuesdays at the bar Frangipani and Saturdays at the club Red Station are designated for Lesbians.

As the week ended many homosexual guys decided to dance the night away at the three story club D2….with their shirts off. What a wonderful way to end a wonderful week.

[Source:New York Times]