Pride Guide
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The best things in life are free, and this weekend is an opportunity for everyone to cast their differences aside by rejoicing under the summer sky to celebrate diversity. Pride is finally coming to the North East and remains the only free festival of its kind in the UK, which makes Newcastle an extremely privileged city.
Expect to see outrageous costumes alongside public displays of affection with an atmosphere exploding with excitement, love and emotion. The LGBT community and Northern Pride work year-round to organize the Pride festival, which aims to reduce homophobia and celebrate diversity. The overall result encourages people to embrace different cultures so we can live in a safe society for everyone.
It all kicks off on Friday 21st, with performances at the Town Moore running from 7.00pm-9.15pm (line-up unannounced). The following day, Newcastle comes to a standstill for the parade as it struts through the city, swallowing uncertainty and ignorance to regurgitate love and acceptance. Expect to see elaborate floats, upon which exquisitely-dressed drag queens lip sync to gay anthems, followed by proud marchers carrying banners and making as much noise as possible. The march starts at 12 noon, meeting first at the civic centre at 11.30a.m.
The Parade eventually makes its way up to Exhibition Park, where the crowd gathers for a day of dancing and rolling around in the grass. There are performances from 90’s pop sensation A1, Little Fix – an aptly named tribute band- plus many more. Remember, it’s free, in aid of a very noble cause and a chance for people to be exactly who they are. With a range of food vendors, stalls and a fairground with your favourite rides to boot, there’s entertainment wherever you look. Apart from the Parade, the next day follows a similar blueprint, with performances from acts including Stooshe and Sam Bailey, commencing at 2 pm. The weekend winds down with a Candlelit Vigil to remember the struggle experienced by the LGBT community in fighting for equality. It’s also a chance to honour those who have either suffered or lost their lives as a result of homophobia.