This year Orange County has decided to one up its neighbors to the west by pulling back the “Orange Curtain” to begin the festivities a bit early.

If you’re headed up to celebrate the festivities in Long Beach, get a jump start the night of Friday, May 15, as Knott’s Berry Farm rolls out the rainbow carpet to celebrate Orange County Pride in the Park.

Entertainers include dance diva Pepper MaShay, and Chad Michaels and the Dreamgirls revue. There are three dance areas featuring DJs Ray Rhode, Kathy Valenti and Corey D., or be brave enough and get on the roller coaster.

The Orange County Pride celebration at Knott’s Berry Farm begins at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.ocpride.org.