Advance Notice. Outfest 2011.

It's been a momentous week for gay rights in New York. But while we can't yet celebrate in the same way here in California, Los Angeles is at least home to Outfest, a gay and lesbian film festival now entering its 29th year. The 10-day-long fest is aimed at exploring LGBT themes in film, features both major and indie movies, and this year is boasting some pretty big guest names. Look out for the likes of Margaret Cho, Lance Bass, and Clay Aiken to take part in panels, and even RuPaul to present an award on the opening night of the festival. Notable films like international favorite Weekend, documentary Becoming Chaz featuring Chaz Bono, The Perfect Family starring Emily Deschanel and Jason Ritter, and Dolly Parton classic The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, will all be screened, among many others. Check out the schedule here, and get your tickets now.

Outfest 2011 takes place July 7-17 at various locations around Los Angeles. Check the website for more details.

-- Chau Tu

Do It. Prop 8 Demonstration.

Earlier this month, same-sex couples (and supporters of marriage rights for everyone) celebrated when a federal judge struck down the ban on gay marriage. Unfortunately, the collective sigh of relief didn't last long, when a stay was placed on the ban. And now the wait is for the court of appeals to hear the case.

Tonight in West Hollywood gay rights activists are planning a demonstration (which is great, but honestly I hope it doesn't affect my evening commute home - there's been enough traffic this week with Obama's visit). The gathering will take place at Santa Monica Blvd. and San Vicente at 6:00 p.m.

The stay was originally supposed to be lifted Wednesday evening - so today West Hollywood officials had planned to wed gay couples.

Rather than a celebration, the fight for equality continues tonight.

-- Leslie Anne Wiggins

Photo credit: babble.com