A virtual march, a DJ set with Gok Wan and entertainment for all the family are just some of the highlights of this weekend’s (18 July) Northern Pride.
While the usual celebration had to be postponed because of COVID-19, organisers were determined that the day would not go unmarked.
And now a full programme of events, sponsored by Barclays, can be enjoyed via Facebook and You Tube.
The event kicks off with the first official play of Pride’s charity music video at 11am, followed by a virtual march at noon with everyone is encouraged to dress up and share the virtual experience.
Organisers have been collecting video and images from past Pride evens in the last few months, which will help create a real Pride atmosphere on the day.
A virtual main stage will see a whole range of performances throughout the day, with one of the highlights television fashion guru, Gok Wan, at 6pm, with a DJ set.
The event will end with a candlelight vigil at 8pm, with social media then hosting a virtual after Pride party, which will also be broadcast on Pride Radio 89.2 FM.
Ste Dunn, Chair of Northern Pride, said it was important that people still take part in the event, despite the current challenging circumstances.
«Usually we’d be gearing up for our huge Pride at this point and while this is very different, it is still very important to maintain the spirit of the event», he said.
«We hope that as many people as possible will take part in the day and we’ve tried to bring all of the usual elements into the virtual platforms».
«It should be a great day and we look forward to welcoming everyone».
Also included are performances on the main stage and from Curious Arts and Be Scene, plus content from all of the festival zones – health and wellbeing, family and youth and sport.
It has been organised around a range of key themes, including unity, protect, identity, healing and spirit – all important factors of the Pride movement.
The theme of protect – one of the core values of Northern Pride – will also be reflected at the event, highlighting the fact that there is still a huge amount of inequality in the world.
Pride will also focus on identity, and about bringing home the message that «everyone deserves to be accepted for who they are, regardless of their gender identity or sexuality».
Anyone wanting to join in the event can do so at www.northern-pride.com/prideonline
There is also the opportunity to donate to support this and future Prides at crowdfunder.co.uk/northern-pride-online
