The Folsom Street Fair was ONCE a gay event...
but by 1987, it had become pretty internationally famous. I lived in SF during those days, and the FSF started in the mid-80s, a kind of reaction to AIDS (the leather community was very involved, having events to raise money for AIDS charities at a time when Shanti had barely begun to form).
It wasn't tremendously busy the first 2 years, but it got crowded by the 3rd year. By 1990, it drew straights (with children in strollers being a common sight). I don't recall seeing any men (straight, I would guess, since they were with the wife and babies, but who truly knows?) reacting as though they were afraid. I mean, you go to a completely gay event, you expect guys are going to notice you if you're nice looking!
Everyone got along very well in those days. I gave up after 1994, because there were just too many people. Fortunately, I lived 5 blocks away from it, right off Potrero Avenue, so I could walk there in 5 minutes.
It was a time when people came together and you could feel the goodwill.
Smiles cost nothing, but are priceless in their impact. Get yours today!