Following the huge success of the first-ever Donegal Pride parade, held in Buncrana last June by Inishowen Pride, the organisation has confirmed that the event will return in 2023.
“Building on the seismic success of the 2022 Pride parade, we are so excited to announce that we will be back in 2023 with another community-led Pride Parade at 3pm on Sunday 4th June 2023 in Buncrana followed by a fantastic evening of entertainment,” Elizabeth Curran, Inishowen Pride spokesperson, said.
This year’s festival kicked off with the unveiling of the Pride mural and a dance flash mob on Sunday, May 28, with a range of different activities and events expected across the coming weekend.
On Friday, June 2, Changemakers and Disappear Here Film Club will present a series of LGBTQ+-themed short films, with the screening taking place alongside the internationally acclaimed photo exhibition Where Love is Illegal, which will be showcased for the first time in Ireland for Donegal Pride.
In preparation for the grand parade, the Inishowen Pride Walk will take place on Saturday, June 3, for anyone wanting to warm up for the next day. After the walk, participants will be able to unwind and relax at the fundraising concert featuring local performers like the Henry Girls and Jazz singer Jaime Nanci.
And for those looking to keep the party going, DJs will be playing in the Railway Tavern, which will open its doors to all after the concert.
Festivities will conclude with the parade on Sunday, which will begin at 1:30pm at the ground of Scoil Mhuire. Local Links Bus service is providing return transport to Buncrana on the day from Moville, Malin and Letterkenny. There are limited places so people are asked to book their seats early to avoid disappointment.
Any groups interested in joining the parade are asked to register online in advance.
Looking back on last year’s parade, which was Buncrana’s first, Elizabeth Curran remarks: “The 2022 Pride Parade was such a wonderful event for Inishowen and County Donegal, gaining media attention locally, nationally, and internationally. Buncrana looked amazing as the community rallied together in preparation for its first Pride Parade.”
Remembering the overwhelming support from the local community, she adds: “We couldn’t have done it without the support of the local business community, individuals at home and away, who donated and supported the parade and Donegal County Council and a high number of the Inishowen/Donegal County councillors also gave their support.
“The committee wish to thank sincerely each person who helped in any way to make what once was only a dream, a reality for so many. We can’t wait to see you all back in Inishowen again for Inishowen for Donegal Pride Sunday, June 4th 2023,” Curran adds.
Only 8 sleeps until we celebrate Pride in Buncrana on Sunday 4th of June at 3pm. Come and join us for a day of joyful celebration ? pic.twitter.com/zL1hXpm50g
— Inishowen Pride ?️??️⚧️ (@Inishpride) May 27, 2023
For more information, you can check out Inishowen Pride on Facebook or Instagram.
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