The Gay Pride Parade

Brussels – city of surprises
Gay Pride comes in many guises:
Fright wigs, fishnet tights, high heels
Long dresses, short shorts, the mind reels!

Helicopters overhead
Crowds and barricades instead
Of open spaces – central station
I stepped out – in trepidation...

Soldiers, army trucks, police
On every side the crowds increase
In rainbow colours stalls are decked
No entrance fee but rucksacks checked.

A host of tents on Mont des Arts
Heaving crowds – there are no cars
For unwary visitors a trial
Extravaganza Brussels-style!

A Parade down town in Place Brouckère
More shoppers stop amazed, and stare
At the vibrant outfits on display
The music takes our breath away!

Belgium's freedoms are well known
Its constitution carved in stone*
Proclaims free press, free faith, free schools;
Freedom of Association rules!

(c) Poet in the woods 2016

* 1831