Bristol Pride adds another accolade to their collection by being named Pride Organisation of the Year at this year’s national Gaydio Awards in Manchester.
After a public nomination, Bristol Pride was chosen as the winning festival by a panel of community judges. Members of the Bristol Pride team accepted the awards in front of a star-studded audience, which included West End and Strictly Come Dancing star Layton Williams. Stars from Rupaul’s Drag Race UK, such as Ginger Johnson and Tia Kofi, performed and presented awards, with both having performed at the festival’s Cabaret Stage last year.
Chris Blackmore, Gaydio said to MySoCalledGayLife.co.uk :
‘The Pride category received an incredible number of nominations and Bristol Pride continues to be a unique and important event that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community and offers the chance to connect people in the community and beyond.’
This year organisers celebrate their 15th anniversary after bringing the festival back to the city in 2010. The team have grown it from a 4,000 person event to one of the largest UK Prides, welcoming 40,000 people to Pride Day on The Downs and 25,000 joining the Parade March through the city.
Daryn Carter, Director, Bristol Pride said to MySoCalledGayLife.co.uk :
‘We are incredibly proud to be named Pride Organisation of The Year. We’ve worked hard to build Bristol Pride up to be one of the biggest Pride events in the UK, and to keep the community at the heart of what we do. It’s just fantastic to be recognised for our work on this national platform.’
Last year the team delivered 40 events across the festival, in 26 venues in the city and saw Jakes Shears and Natalie Imbruglia headlining. This year’s events will take place from the 29th June – 14th July, with the main Pride Day festival taking place on Saturday 13th July and will once again bring the city alive with Pride. 5 incredible stages will return to The Downs, with over 200 performers and artists as well as incredible food and market areas. The Bristol Pride site will also host Youth and Family Areas alongside the Community and Expo Area that platforms over 60 charities and organisations.
