Organizers credit great weather for turnout; commend police security crew for "'remarkable' job

The Resource Center of Dallas float was one of more than 100 entries in the 24th annual Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade on Sunday. Organizers say a record crowd attended the event. (GREGORY HAYES/Dallas Voice)

It was a record day for gay Pride in Dallas.

Michael Doughman, executive director of the Dallas Tavern Guild, said more people than ever attended the rally in Lee Park following Sunday's 24th annual Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade.

Doughman also estimated the number of people who lined the streets during the parade was on par with two years ago, when the event drew a record crowd of 35,000 to 38,000.

"We know it was a record attendance in the park," Doughman said, adding that no one conducts an official headcount.

"We're very pleased with the attendance. The food vendors had a record day, and so did the beer sales."

The large turnout was due in part to nice weather, Doughman said. Last year, it rained heavily during the event.

"It was a little warm, but it was certainly better than the rain and it was better than 105 degrees," Doughman said.

There were no major hiccups to report, Doughman said, with only three minor arrests. One protester came into Lee Park during the rally but was promptly escorted away by police.

"The police security crew that managed the whole thing this year was remarkable," Doughman said. "They did a splendid job."

For a list of trophy winners, see Friday's Dallas Voice.