The turnout was estimated to be a quarter million people larger than last year's, swelling streets, provoking tempers, and forcing the detour of about 50 floats. But no major problems were reported.

Opening the parade was Rahm Emanuel, the first time the city's sitting mayor joined in the celebration since Richard M. Daley marched his first year in office in 1989.

The crowd's ebullience was boosted even higher than normal by New York's vote to legalize gay marriage.

"You can hold hands,'' a jubiliant Gil Collazo, 28, told the Chicago Tribune. "You can show your personality."

"It's just too much happiness,'' Heidi Malm, of Rogers Park, exclaimed. "If you're home today, you just miss out on all this happiness."

Below, some snaps from Flickr capturing the street color of the parade.



A proud paradegoer wears her heart on her breats. Photo credit goes to BartShore on Flickr.



Showing spirit, a Chicago police officer accessorizes in pink. Photo credit goes to BartShore on Flickr.




Gay pride is inclusive. Photo by Nimataradji on Flickr.



Two youngsters incognito add to the Mardi Gras party feel along Halsted in on Lakeview. Photo credit to Nimataradji on Flickr.




Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.) shows her true colors at Sunday's parade. Photo credit goes to Steve Sterns on Flickr.



Joggers lurch forward at the starting line of Saturday's 30th Annual Proud To Run Race. Runners choose from either a 5K or 10K course.

Of course, the race for equality is more marathon than sprint.