Photos from Chicago's Pride Parade in 1985

As Chicago geared up for its 45th annual Pride Parade in 2014, Time Out Chicago photo editor Martha Williams came across this treasure trove of photos from the parade’s 16th year, 1985. These images conjure a simpler time of big mustaches and tiny shorts, when the parade was more of a community march than an opportunity for corporate branding.

Of course, it’s worth recalling while looking at these celebratory pictures that 1985 was also a time of growing anxiety among the gay community—the year that The Normal Heart premiered and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago was established. They’re a strong reminder as we celebrate this weekend to remember the struggles and triumphs that led us to this point.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Gay Pride Chicago 2015