I think I might go to my localish dyke pride event. Do you have any advice with not being scared of interacting with new people?
You are beautiful and wonderful and the event will be better because you're there.
Most of the people there are just as nervous as you are. You're gonna say something you think is unbelievably awkward (they won't notice). They are going to say something they think is unbelievably awkward (you won't notice). You can choose to spiral about it, or recognize that this mutual embarrassment is small potatoes. Were you friendly? Did you compliment them? That's all they'll remember.
Take your tits out. (remember sunscreen)
It'll be over before you know it, cherish it while it lasts.
Make a sign! That will give you something to hold in your hands that isn't your phone.
Stop at the tables afterwards. Sign up for things. Take fliers. Start going to local events so that next year you're not going with new people, you're going with friends.
This is *your* community. It belongs to you. Act like it's yours for the taking.
Talk to the organizers. Thank them for what they do.
Run! Dance! Scream! This is a celebration! It's hard but you did it! You made it another year! I'm so proud of you!