Equality Forum 2008 kicked off yesterday with a VIP reception at City Hall, marking the beginning of a week of presentations, panel discussions and, of course, parties.

Panel topics run the gamut from body image and health issues in the GLBT community to politics and legal concerns. For those seeking culture as well as knowledge, an art exhibit is on display throughout the week at University of the Arts, while Hedwig and the Angry Inch and Hairspray promise to have theatre-goers singing along in their seats.

When it's time to let loose, there are a slew of parties to choose from. Since Sapphire Fund moved its flagship Blue Ball and Emerge weekend of events to coincide with Equality Forum, revelers can dance for a good cause all weekend long. Proceeds from the parties benefit local GLBT and health service organizations.

The weekend culminates in the Sunday OUT! street festival, held on Market Street between 2nd and 5th streets. Post-festival, Triumph Brewing Company hosts a party, followed by a late-night closing party at Pure. Better plan to call in sick on Monday, folks—it's going to be a long weekend.

Equality Forum
April 28 - May 4, 2008
Various venues
Tickets vary by event

Image courtesy of Equality Forum.