Hundreds take part in the 30th annual Galway Pride Parade

There was a strong turnout for the longest-running consecutive Pride in Ireland: Galway Pride festival.

People holding a Pride flag at Galway Pride Parade

Hundreds of people turned out to join in the Galway Pride parade in the city on Saturday afternoon, August 17.

The parade was a culmination of a week-long Pride Festival, which celebrated its 30th anniversary this year.

The colourful procession set off from College Road at lunchtime and made its way through the city, down Shop Street and finished at Father Griffin Park, where the family fun day took place.

Galway Pride holds the record for the longest-running consecutively running Pride in Ireland.

Last month, Galway Pride announced the Grand Marshal for this year’s festival as Nuala Ward. Nuala is one of the founding members of Galway Pride.

On being announced as Grand Marshal, Nuala said: “I feel privileged each year participating in Galway Pride parade. Jane Talbot and Natalie Zaybolt helped me organise Galway’s first Pride parade. This year will mark our communities 30th parade. It is an honour for me to lead Galway’s diverse, vibrant and flourishing LGBTQ+ community, our families, friends and allies on this special parade.

“Remembering those who have gone before us, celebrating positive change, highlighting ongoing much-needed work and in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ sisters and brothers around the world. Visibility is as important today as it was 30 years ago.

“Whether it’s your 1st or your 21st parade enjoy every moment!! A big thank you to all involved for your work and dedication in creating a festival for all of us to enjoy. Have a happy and safe Galway Community Pride!”

The city of Galway has recently voted to raise the rainbow flag at City hall to commemorate Galway Pride’s 30th year in a unanimous vote.

Owen Hanley said on this decision: “The rainbow flag will fly to mark our progress that has been made, in solidarity with the struggles still to be won across the world, and in unity with our community in the North.”

Black Pride Ireland made its debut at Galway Pride this year co-hosting an afterparty with Origins Eile.

The seven day festival concluded yesterday with a Pride Cruise and a Chill Out in Teach Solais.

© 2019 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.

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