COLUMBUS, Ohio — Hundreds of thousands of people will be marching in downtown Columbus this weekend celebrating pride.
Angela Verdine, a local participant, is looking forward to all the sites and scenes of the event.
"The artistry of people's couture, the personality, the parade, the diversity," said Verdine.
As large crowds fill the streets, businesses are hoping for a successful weekend.
One Line Coffee spent the week prepping batches of coffee and tea and creating a plan to keep customers happy.
"Really trying to make pride a great experience for everyone, so we're really trying not to make everyone wait in 20 minute lines," said barista Madelyn Chaney.
Forno Kitchen and Bar added extra staff this weekend.
"Like to keep our patio open because the parade comes down our street so that will fill up as soon as we open at 10," said Forno employee Hailey Donatelli. "Celebrating our identities, being prideful and happy about being myself and I love that I work and live in a place where I can be myself unapologetically."
Just up the road, O Sweet Tea opened its doors a month ago and the small business is taking the opportunity to meet people.
"The community and solidarity with everyone and having this kind of event really just brings everyone together," said employee Michelle Lin.
Local shops are hopeful to share their favorites with people coming in from all around the nation, such as Jeremy Margolies who came all the way from Washington DC to experience Columbus pride.
"Being able to celebrate that in a city like Columbus is really special, really fun," said Margolies.
The march steps off on Broad and High streets at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.