NORTHERN Pride is still celebrating, after its first in-person event in two years has been heralded a major success.
The celebration, held recently (22-24 July) at Newcastle Town Moor was also marking the fact that it was awarded UK Pride status, which brought in an audience not just from across the country but across the globe.
Visitors from as far afield as the USA and Australia headed to the event, which included performances across the weekend from stars such as Melanie C, Louise and Joe McElderry.
Saturday’s Pride March through the streets of Newcastle saw a record 25,000 people taking part, with thousands more lining the streets to cheer it on.
Ste Dunn, director of Northern Pride said the response had been incredible.
“We have had so much positive feedback about every aspect of the day, from the live performances which focused on local LGBTQ+ artists, to the community village zones including activities for families and health support and advice.
“We’ve also received positive feedback on our accessibility efforts including our raised platform for wheelchair users and on new additions to the festival including the LGBT Northern Social Group zone.
“We were delighted to also have representatives from the pride organisers community, including Kristine Garina, President of European Pride Organisers Association, Hadi Damien and Debbie Brixey, President and Vice President of Interpide, respectively.
“The Pride Festival is such an important opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community to come together and celebrate, but it is also an opportunity to remember the history of Pride and the struggles that many people still face and that is why we need to continue to speak out against LGBTphobic hate crimes and violence against our community, whilst also demanding change especially for our Trans, non-binary and gender diverse community.”
Ste also thanked the supporters and sponsors who have made the event possible.
“Pride simply wouldn’t happen without the support of our key supporters, partners and sponsors who help us deliver the event, along with all those in the community and allies that donate and fundraise all year round to help us keep the festival free,” he said.
Before the Town Moor was cleared of all the structures that made this year’s festival one of the biggest outdoor even Newcastle has seen, the Northern Pride team where already announcing plans for 2023 with the festival retuning on 22-23 July next, with Platinum passes now on sale.