Drag queens pulled up their fishnets and strapped on their sexiest stilettos and highest platforms in preparation for the annual 17th Street High-Heel Race in Dupont Circle Tuesday night. This tradition of cross-dressing to the nines and sprinting three blocks between Church and R streets had people packing the sidewalks for hours before and after the 9 p.m. race.
Contestants showed off their costumes, including Martha Stewart, airline stewardesses, Dairy Queens and other types of queen. The actual race only lasts for a few short minutes - no time at all compared to the time it takes for the participants to prepare. After the race, the fun and festivities continued into the night at the area bars.
The tradition began from an impromptu race between drag queens in 1986, according to MetroWeekly. In high heels, they would speed from JR's Bar & Grill to Annie's Paramount Steakhouse - two blocks. This year, the city was going to charge organizers $9,000, but the fee was waived, as it was in 2003, MetroWeekly reported.
The event takes place annually before Halloween. For more information on Halloween events, costumes and other ideas, see the Scene.
