Mayo Pride is back and better than ever for its 2022 festival with a jam-packed weekend to celebrate diversity and inclusion.
The theme this year is the ‘Adventure Edition’ which will encourage outdoor activities all around Westport. Events will take place from July 1 to July 3 and will offer something for everyone.
The weekend celebration will start at 11 am on Friday with The Big Gay Hike which will explore the beautiful scenery of Croagh Patrick. At 5 pm you can relax at the Sea Pride swimming event which includes a Barrel West Sauna, music courtesy of Mr. Whippy Soundsystem, and plenty of food from Teach Scoile.
A Pride cruise will leave at 6:30 pm for a sightseeing tour around Clew Bay. The festival will also offer family events including Drag Storytime as well as a Pride Family Rave and Picnic.
The evening doesn’t stop there, though! The Fierce Queer Cabaret will showcase amazing performances from drags, comedians and dancers. Candy Warhol, Floozy and Bluesy, The Dirt Bird, Sinead Walsh, Fagatha Christy. Conor Behan (2FM) and Ragin’ Spice are sure to entertain you all night long!
Make sure to attend the Pride parade on Saturday at 1:45 pm at The Fairgreen Westport which will be led by the Queen of Ireland, Dr Panti Bliss.
“I’m delighted to be involved in Mayo Pride… It’s a reminder that LGBTQ+ people live and thrive all across the country. The event would have delighted a disbelieving young Panti who thought she was the only gay west of the Shannon,” Bliss said.
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The parade will be followed by a ‘clubbing extravaganza’ courtesy of the popular queer club, Mother, and a special DJ set by Panti Bliss.
Sunday will offer a Ride With Pride cycling trip along the Great Western Greenway to wrap up an incredible weekend.
Chair for Mayo Pride 2022, Conor Wilson shared the goals of the celebration this year.
“Mayo Pride has always been important for showcasing the colour and creativity of the local LGBTQ+ community in the region. But recent attacks are an upsetting reminder of how much we still have to do to create an Ireland that is truly safe and equal. Regional Prides are extra important this year as we celebrate and showcase our resilience as a community. Our visibility is our solidarity, and we ask our LGBTQ+ family and allies to join us in Westport on July 2nd.”
More information about Mayo Pride 2022 including event registration and tickets can be found here.
Last year, Mayo Pride returned in-person in Westport with a Pride Outside edition. Although the parade was canceled, organisers worked magic to create smaller outdoor activities that would help bring everyone back together in a safe way.
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