Provincetown has a long and rich history, as the first landing spot for the Mayflower, a robust tradition of fishing, an artists’ colony and as an LGBTQ haven.
That last one took some effort, starting in the 1970s.
“This was at a time when Provincetown’s leadership didn’t necessarily understand why it was important to promote the town as a destination for queer travelers, and there were many in town trying to downplay the town’s creative community in an effort to promote it as one of the more well-known ‘straight’ destinations on the Cape,” Provincetown Business Guild Executive Director Stephan Hengst said.
This was born Carnival Week, a way to show town leadership that diversity and inclusion are fun, vibrant and just plain good for business.
“Carnival was the result of the community showing its love and appreciation for the community that called the tip of Cape Cod home,” said Hengst.
This year Ptown is celebrating the 45th anniversary of Carnival Week, from Aug. 12-19. Today, Carnival Week is more of an affirmation than a request. Sponsored since it’s founding by the Provincetown Business Guild (PBG), it is one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the United States, and the largest event on Cape Cod.
Carnival is welcoming to all, and draws in more than 10,000 visitors of all types – singles, families, straight and LGBTQ+.
The theme this year is Land of Toys.
On Aug. 13 you can start the day in the 5k run/walk, “Feet Over Front Street,” which honors Commercial Street’s original name and winds through the scenic town. Later in the day you can hop aboard the Disco Duck Carnival Cruise, which takes you out on the waters off Ptown for a view of the coast that’s breathtaking.
There will be food, dance and celebrities, including DJ Andrew Haig and NYC nightlife golden-era icon and black trans advocate DJ Lina Bradford.
If you’ve got stamina, there’s a costume kick-off party beginning at 10 p.m. at the iconic Crown & Anchor.
All week long there are special events, celebrity appearances and more.
On Wednesday evening Aug. 16 at 8:30 p.m. fans of Ru Paul’s Drag Race will be thrilled: Show superstar Alyssa Edwards will appear live at Town Hall.
In 2012, Justin Dwayne Lee Johnson, known by the stage name Alyssa Edwards, competed on the fifth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, where she immediately catapulted to fame for her candid testimonials, outrageous tongue-pops and quirky personality. In 2016, Johnson returned as one of 10 contestants in Season 2 of RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars, where Alyssa Edwards stole the hearts of the audience, ultimately finishing as fourth runner-up.
Edwards will share stories, comedy and more.
The centerpiece of it all is the annual Carnival Parade, stepping off at 3 pm. on Aug. 17.
Winding its way down Commercial Street from the Harbor Hotel in the East End to the Coast Guard Station in the West End, the parade draws more than 150,000 guests.
Held that first year as a symbol of Provincetown’s inclusiveness, creativity and diversity, the parade has grown over those 45 years to one of the Cape’s biggest events.
It’s a great event for all, said Hengst, as is the entire week. Other events include yoga programs, dance parties, pool parties and more.
There’s also the backdrop: the tip of the Cape that’s beloved by the world. You’ll find plenty of shopping and dining, and endless water views.
If you’re looking for a quick bite to grab, insiders will point you to the hot dogs at FarLand Provisions on Bradford Street. They are massive; 100% beef, and served on a delicious brioche bun; two for less than $10.
And the Provincetown Portuguese Bakery is a must visit for a sweet or savory snack or, as is tradition for many, a breakfast roll that’s out of this world.
“Provincetown is rich in history and culture, and its heritage shines through every day in the lives of the people that call it home,” Hengst said. “When you’re here, you are surrounded by the arts, culture, and so much more, and because Provincetown has always been a melting pot of sorts, everyone is welcome here.”
