DES MOINES, Iowa — As if the COVID-19 shutdown wasn't bad enough for local businesses, Capital City Pride's cancellation means the streets of downtown Des Moines won't be as busy as years past.
The annual event brings is more than 25,000 people.
"It's the biggest event that we have over here in the East Village," said The Blazing Saddle co-owner Bryan Smith.
For the first time in 37, Blazing Saddle closed due to the pandemic.
"We really kinda have to watch what we're doing," Smith said. "It's sad when you have to turn people away, especially during Pride Month."
The bar will still decorate in order to make sure the celebration isn't totally lost.
Capital City Pride is planning on holding virtual celebrations over the course of three weeks.