Cork Pride Festival returns with a fun-filled programme

Cork Pride Festival kicks off today, and the theme this year is ‘30 Years On’, celebrating three decades since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland. Taking place from 30 July until 6 August, here are some of our favourite highlights over the next week.

Mark your calendars for the grand finale of the festival – the highly anticipated parade on 6 August. Set to be a highlight, the colourful parade will weave its way through the city centre, from 1pm to 3pm. Festivities will continue at Party at the Port at the Port of Cork, Kennedy Quay, from 3pm to 8pm, where Ireland’s Eurovision 2023 act Wild Youth will be headliners.

Next Saturday has some real highlights in store, with plenty of events to chose from. For the early risers, why not join the annual Frontrunners Cork 5k Pride Run on Saturday 5 August at 9.30am? The meeting point will be Tramore Valley Park, this run will be the most colourful and fun run of the 2023 calendar.

There will be a family fun day at Fitzgerald’s Park, also on Saturday 5 August, with a fabulous afternoon of fun and rainbow festivities planned from 12pm-6pm. From games and entertainment to delicious treats and fun performances, there's something for everyone in the family. Don your brightest colours for a day filled with laughter, love, and unity.

If you're ready to shake up your Pride celebrations and inject a dose of rock'n'roll into the mix, Making a Scene at Fred Zeppelin’s is the place to be. This unique blend of punk and drag going to be a show-stopper. Head over to Fred's at 8.30pm on Saturday 5 August where you can expect some fabulous performances and a walk on the wild side.

There are plenty more events to look forward to over the week, you can check out the full list of events on the Cork Pride website.