SAN ANTONIO – October 11 is National Coming Out Day, which marks a landmark day for LGBTQIA rights across the country, with ways to celebrate locally.

Thirty years ago the day went down in history as one of the largest demonstrations at the capital for gay rights, according to Austin Family Counseling. More than half one million people showed up for the march that ended with the founding of several gay rights groups.

The day now unites the LGBTQIA community hoping to empower them to come out to the people closest to them while fostering a supportive environment.

In San Antonio, there is a poetry open mic event from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Palo Alto College located on 1400 W Villaret Blvd.

The San Antonio LBGT Chamber of Commerce is hosting an event on Saturday, October 13 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Mission Marquee Plaza.