very simple

And I do mean everyone. After work yesterday, I spent some time both walking up sixth avenue and taking the bus home, and I was somewhat perplexed by the number of tourists I seemed to be encountering. Now, there are always scads of confused-looking folks in pleated shorts and fanny packs wandering around on a Friday afternoon, but it was out-of-control yesterday. This morning it hit me. Two enormous, crowd-attracting events that have a pretty small margin of audience overlap.

First, Billy Graham is here (or, more accurately, in Queens) for his last crusade. Which, I mean, it’s not really my thing, but then I’m reminded of the fact that New York City has more religious structures (churches, temples, mosques) per square mile than anywhere else in the country. In fact, if you stand on any corner in Manhattan, you will find at least one church within a three block radius.

And today, the lavender line runs down Fifth Avenue with the Gay Pride March. They were setting up the parade barricades on Fifth last night while I was waiting for the bus. It’s always pretty difficult for me to avoid this one, since the route goes right past the Flatiron building on their way down to Christopher Street. Most parades don’t go this far downtown, but it really wouldn’t be a gay pride parade if it didn’t end up in the West Village.

I’m telling you, I’m somewhat glad that I’m stuck inside waiting for the cable guy today (yes, again). It’s going to be over 90 degrees today, and a mix of evangelical christians and drunk, barely-clothed transvestites and Chelsea boys is something I can live without. Then again, talk about your free entertainment…

Oh, and for those of you who want something a little less religious and/or gay, you can go watch the Coney Island Mermaid Parade, where topless women marching in bizarre fish costumes is actually considered fun for the whole family.

See? something for everyone. I’m just hoping to get to see March of the Penguins at some point.

Tags: new york city