Jul 4, 20232 min read

You rained on my Helsinki Parade

Updated: Sep 1, 2023

It was a sloppy wet and cold day in Helsinki. At least it ended that way. There was a few hours of minimal mist but once it started, the skies opened up and it rained just as the Pride Parade was really getting started.

I knew the weather was going to be less than idea today, so I left the trusty Sony Alpha on the ship and I allowed myself to just be there, to enjoy and absorb, unhinged from the confines of a backpack of camera gear.

It was without a doubt the correct decision. By the time I arrived back at the ship, my hands were literally blue and wrinkled from the cold, wind and rain. Granted, some of that was self-induced as I wore a pride flag tank top and shorts (had to look the part for the parade) but I don't think there was any amount or type of clothing that would have kept you dry.

The day started with a walking tour. I veered off midway to go back down to the square to start the pride festivities. I arrived about 11:15a and the crowd continued to swell until the parade actually started around 12:25p. I marched alongside my fellow queers and ally's, numbered in the thousands. Described as part parade and part protest, it was a memorable point of this European holiday.

Because of the parade it was impossible to get an Uber from where I was located back to the ship, as they couldn't cross the parade route, so I ended up walking, which seemed like a very long distance in the cold, windy weather.

Glad to be back onboard, I went to the spa and sat on a heated tile lounger, steam room and then sauna to try and warm myself up.

Later in the evening, I won a jackpot in the casino. If it wasn't for the celebration, it would have likely been a a highlight of the day. But, as luck would have it, life is more about memories and experiences than hundred dollar bills. Lucky for me, today was filled with both.

Overall a good day. It would be nice to visit Helsinki again when it wasn't so rainy. The city seemed to ooze with pride. Pun intended. 🏳️‍🌈

Cole from Colorado