Out & About
Toy drive to lift holiday spirits
Gay-helmed effort will benefit local children in need
![](https://www.washingtonblade.com/content/files/2014/12/Walter_Lundy_460x470_c_Washington_Blade_by_Michael_Key.jpg)
![Walter Lundy, Queery, gay news, Washington Blade](https://www.washingtonblade.com/content/files/2013/01/Walter_Lundy_insert_c_Washington_Blade_by_Michael_Key.jpg)
Walter Lundy (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)
Walter Lundy hosts his fourth annual Red-Themed Toy Drive Party at the Local Celebrity Banquet Hall (8579 Landover Rd., Hyattsville, Md.)Ā Sunday from 7 p.m.-1 a.m.
Guests wear red and donate toys to needy children in the Washington area. In past years, Lundy, who is gay, and others have gone to the homes of these children to personally deliver the toys. Families who will benefit from the drive include those from the D.C. Department of Human Services Strong Familiesā program, the Prince Georgeās Department of Children Services, the Hubbard Place and more.
For more information or to make a donation, e-mailĀ [email protected].
Out & About
Celebrate July 4 with area fireworks displays
Festivities planned for National Mall, Baltimore, Rehoboth Beach
![](https://www.washingtonblade.com/content/files/2023/06/20120704_Independence_Day_fireworks_at_Washington_Monument_insert_c_Washington_Blade_by_Michael_Key.jpg)
The National Mall is the most popular place to watch the D.C. fireworks display; spread a blanket near the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, or the Lincoln Memorial. The 17-minute display starts at 9:09 p.m. and will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
In Baltimore, the Inner Harbor Fourth of July festivities will begin at 6 p.m. and the fireworks and drone show will begin at 9:30 p.m. downtown at the harbor.
The fireworks in Rehoboth Beach, Del., will be held on Saturday, July 6.
Out & About
Smithsonian Folklife Festival underway
‘Indigenous Voices of the Americas’ program held on the Mall
![](https://www.washingtonblade.com/content/files/2024/06/2024_Smithsonian_Folklife_Festival_insert_courtesy_Smithsonain.jpg)
The 2024 Smithsonian Folklife Festival takes place on the National Mall June 26āJuly 1, with the program āIndigenous Voices of the Americas: Celebrating the National Museum of the American Indian.ā
Since 1967, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival has been held on the National Mall; events are free. Festival hours are 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m., with evening concerts Friday through Sunday from 5:30-7 p.m. For details on specific events, visit festival.si.edu/visit.
![](https://www.washingtonblade.com/content/files/2024/06/rainbow_Pride_flags_in_park_insert_by_Bigstock.jpg)
The 2024 Arlington Pride Festival will be held Saturday, June 29 at 12 p.m. at Long Bridge Park.
This event will be a gathering of the community showcasing local talent, food, and vibrant entertainment. The event will be a celebration of diversity and love.
Attendance is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.Ā
-
Canada1 day ago
Toronto Pride parade cancelled after pro-Palestinian protesters disrupt it
-
Theater4 days ago
Stephen Mark Lukas makes sublime turn in āFunny Girlā
-
Baltimore3 days ago
Despite record crowds, Baltimore Prideās LGBTQ critics say organizers dropped the ball
-
Sports4 days ago
Haters troll official Olympics Instagram for celebrating gay athlete and boyfriend