Hundreds of People Show Up in Thrifted Wedding Dresses for Annual Brides of March Pub Crawl in San Francisco

**San Francisco Celebrates the 26th Annual Brides of March Event with Style and Whimsy**

In a remarkable blend of humour and creativity, hundreds of people gathered in San Francisco on Saturday, March 13, to partake in the 26th annual Brides of March parade and bar crawl. Dressed in thrifted or repurposed wedding gowns, participants transformed the streets of the city into a spectacle of white lace and playful frivolity.

The event kicked off at the Ben Franklin statue in Washington Square Park, where the bridal procession commenced to the delight of onlookers. Participants, who included both men and women, adorned themselves in an array of imaginative outfits that ranged from traditional gowns to uniquely styled ensembles. Many carried bouquets and ring pops, further accentuating the playfulness of the day.

Jenneviere Villegas, the event’s organiser, emphasised the spirit of the occasion, stating, “This is about keeping San Francisco weird.” She described the event as a satirical commentary on the institution of marriage, pointing out the irony that many wedding dresses are expensive items worn only once before being relegated to storage. “We take that messaging and subvert it in a playful way,” she noted.

After gathering at the park for photos in front of the iconic Saints Peter and Paul Church, the brides made their way along Columbus Avenue towards Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe. This part of the event served as an impromptu wedding reception where attendees could mingle and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed atmosphere.

The unique nature of the Brides of March bar crawl has made it a beloved tradition since its inception in 1999, and this year’s gathering proved that the event continues to draw in large crowds. Described as “part pub crawl and part street theatre,” many participants hailed from various walks of life, eagerly displaying their creativity through their wardrobe choices.

A local resident, witnessing the whimsical procession, expressed surprise at the vibrancy of the scene. “I’ve sat in this spot eating sushi many times. It’s never been like this,” they remarked. Observers noted that the spectacle is emblematic of the city’s quirky character, showcasing San Francisco’s long-standing reputation for unconventional celebrations.

While some might draw parallels to other city events like SantaCon, which often involves costumed participants descending upon local bars, Villegas clarified that Brides of March offers a distinct experience. She pointed out that the effort involved in sourcing and wearing a wedding gown requires a commitment that goes beyond simply donning a Santa suit. Denise Lewis, a participant for 13 years, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Here, you’re part of a group. A community.”

Sandra Gumpert, another veteran of the event, revealed her own extensive collection of wedding dresses. “I have 15 wedding dresses in my compression bags in my attic,” she shared, highlighting the dedication of the participants and their love for this unconventional celebration.

The Brides of March is not just a parade; it serves as a platform for self-expression and communal joy, creating an atmosphere where fun and creativity reign supreme. As the day unfolded with laughter, dancing, and camaraderie, participants showcased that the spirit of the day transcends traditional notions of weddings and marriage.

As the event drew to a close, one could sense a shared understanding among participants that the day was about more than just dressing up. It was a chance to celebrate individuality, foster community, and most importantly, enjoy the quirks that make San Francisco a truly unique city.

With participants agreeing that they can’t wait to don their gowns again next year, the Brides of March has firmly established itself as a joyful, eccentric celebration of love, creativity, and a little bit of irreverence in the heart of San Francisco.