On Tuesday evening, thousands watched the annual 17th Street High Heel Race. The race is a tradition—now in its 38th year—that is held on the Tuesday before Halloween.

Contestants dazzled spectators in the Dupont Circle neighborhood with extravagant costumes, from many a Lady Liberty (at least one painted fully green) to a literal dressing cabinet. Whatever the costume, every racer ran in heels.

The event began in 1986 on Halloween as “a friendly wager between drag queens,” who were racing between bars in heels, according to Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office , which hosted the event. Now, the race reflects DC’s vibrant LGBTQ culture.

Festivities included music by DJ Alex Love, a drag performance, and live acts by a variety of DC musicians, artists, and performers. Those joining the

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