17th Street High-Heel Race 2012 Features Mayor VIncent Gray And 'The View' (PHOTOS)

WASHINGTON -- Hurricane Sandy may have postponed the 26th annual 17th Street high-heel race, but there was no shortage of costumes, makeup and treats at the Dupont Circle Halloween-time tradition on Thursday night.

The high-heel race began in 1986 as an impromptu race from one bar to another. With that memory proudly in place, drag queens and other costumed participants ran a few blocks on 17th Street NW, some holding large, alcohol-themed props, while other strutted for the large crowd of revelers.

While official numbers aren't kept, the size of the crowd appeared to be over a thousand strong. All sidewalk space from R Street to Church Street was full, most places at least three rows deep. Bars and restaurants with outdoor seating began filling in during the 6 p.m. hour. By 7 p.m., most decent spots had been claimed.

If you missed the revelry, we have a large and colorful slideshow below.