It’s gearing up to be a fantastic Pride (uncertain weather notwithstanding!) with heaps of excellent events to choose from, but you’d better leave your bag at home if it’s bigger than A4!

Dublin Pride and An Garda Siochana have released a statement requesting that all attendees at this weekend’s Pride parade leave their bags at home on the day.

“For the safety and enjoyment of all attending, An Garda Siochana and Dublin Pride request that Pride patrons leave bags at home on parade day.

In line with standard protocol for all recent events, backpacks and large bags will not be allowed. Only small bags measuring no bigger than A4 (8.27in/21cm x 11.7/ 29.7cm) will be permitted into both St. Stephens Green South and Smithfield Square.

There will of course be exceptions made for people with medical conditions and children, but for the sake of everybody’s safety, all bags will be thoroughly searched.

This is also an alcohol and drug free event.”

Some of the city’s bars and clubs – including Mother, Pantibar and The George – have announced similar restrictions.

In bar owner and national treasure Panti has responded to claims that the increased security measures are a cynical money-making exercise.

“It’s honestly not,” wrote Panti in response to one such skeptic on Twitter, “The Guards have told all Pride events on the day (including the bars etc) to implement a no bag policy.”

If you’re having trouble figuring out the dimensions (which are A4 sized), here’s an handy tip: GCN is exactly that size, so if your copy of this month’s magazine fits snugly, you’re good to go.

The full statement is available on Dublin Pride’s website. The action kicks off at St Stephen’s Green South Saturday, June 24 from 12pm, with the parade starting at 2pm.

Dublin Pride have begun to highlight storage options available for those who are travelling to Dublin from elsewhere and who are unable to leave their larger bags at home.

If you're coming to #DublinPride from out of town or just need to store your bags, there are facilities all over town starting at €5! 👜🎒🏳️‍🌈 pic.twitter.com/3Uh5SnwoNO

— Dublin LGBTQ+ Pride (@DublinPride) June 22, 2017