Warrington was awash with colour and celebration on Saturday as thousands gathered in the town centre to partake in Warrington Pride 2024.
This year’s event, held as part of UK Pride Month, exceeded expectations with a record-breaking turnout and an array of diverse activities.
Warrington BID Project Manager Andrea Morley said: “We’re absolutely delighted with how Warrington Pride turned out this year. The variety of events we had, from the parade to the live performances and family activities, really showcased the incredible diversity within our community. It’s amazing to see how this celebration attracted more people than ever, not just from Warrington, but from surrounding areas as well. The mix of backgrounds and stories shared made it a truly special day.
“This event shows that Warrington is a place where everyone can feel welcome and proud of who they are. I can’t wait to see how we continue to grow and celebrate together in the future.”
Supported by key local organisations including Golden Square, Warrington Borough Council, Warrington BID, Warrington Market, Culture Warrington, Warrington Youth Zone, University of Chester, LiveWire, HC Promotions, and United Utilities.
Warrington Pride, which is in its second year, featured a vibrant parade through the town streets, live music, performances, workshops and a variety of vendors and community organisations providing resources and support for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies.
This year’s Warrington Pride not only celebrated the local LGBTQIA+ community but also commemorated the broader significance of UK Pride Month, marking the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots – a pivotal moment in LGBTQIA+ history.
Through such events, Warrington Pride honours this legacy while promoting inclusivity, celebrating diversity, and acknowledging the community’s achievements.
Ian Cox, Director of Golden Square, said: “The entire event was such a success and being able to host the Glitter event at Golden Square again was an absolute highlight of Warrington Pride for us this year. Seeing so many people come together and celebrate in such a joyful atmosphere was truly heartwarming. We’re proud to support this fantastic event and contribute to making it bigger and better each year. It’s wonderful to see our community shine and embrace diversity in all its forms.”
The town’s Time Square served as the vibrant central hub for Warrington Pride, hosting a diverse array of events including the parade, live performances and keynote speeches.
The event was opened and hosted by Amanda Hilton, Chair of Liverpool Pride, representing the LCR Pride Foundation. Dan Price, the Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner, delivered an inspiring speech about the importance of community safety and inclusion, which was followed by a heartfelt address from Esther Ghey, representing the Peace and Mind Foundation, established in memory of her daughter Brianna Ghey. Their contributions highlighted the ongoing efforts to promote mental health awareness and support within the community.
A crowdfunding campaign remains active to support the Peace and Mind Foundation, inviting contributions to continue this vital work and honour Brianna’s legacy. Click to donate to the crowdfunder.