ALIVE WIT
VISITKENT
BY VISIT KENT ’ S KATY TOWSE
© Dani Evans
Celebrations by the shore … Marching with the masses … Conversations on the cobbles … Partying in the park … During Pride season , the spirit of unity and acceptance permeates every single corner of Kent .
It ’ s a chance to celebrate diversity , embrace individuality and to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive world . So , whether you ’ re a member of the LGBTQIA + community or an ally , there ’ s a place for everyone as we all come together to march , dance and celebrate love in all its forms .
Not sure where to join in the festivities ? We ’ ve got you covered with event highlights for the entire summer season , helping you to take pride in Kent …
Fly your rainbow flag and march on down to Canterbury on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 June for Kent ’ s flagship celebrations featuring the absolutely fabulous Pride Parade . Enjoy the spectacle of community marchers , fantastic floats and marching bands through the historic streets along with excellent entertainment from diverse artists , music , food and drink all weekend long . You can even plan your routes with Stagecoach ’ s bright and beautiful Pride buses , travelling safely in style !
For the first time EVER this year , Pride is coming to both Ashford and Maidstone in the form of live entertainment , community events , dazzling parades and most importantly , those essential after-parties . All happening on Saturday 22 June , both towns are bursting with pride to get in on the action , so partygoers can take their pick !
If you ’ d rather celebrate at the seaside , Folkestone will be hosting the LGBTQIA + community townwide on Saturday 27 July with its own spectacular parade and pride picnic along the Leas . Complete with panoramic sea views , incredible live performers , delicious food , drink and after-parties galore , you ’ ll be dancing on the beaches long into the night .
Why not march to Medway for an entire week of events around Rochester and Chatham from August 12 - 17 . From the vibrant annual Rochester Parade to the bustling Rochester Castle Festival and the fringe events happening at venues across the area , the LGBTQIA + community are spoiled for choice when it comes to celebrating diversity in North Kent .
If you ’ re dreaming of a town that seriously knows how to party , then look no further than Margate who are preparing to throw the biggest Pride party the county has ever seen ! The Dreamland Drag Party is happening on Saturday 10 August , complete with an incredible array of famous drag and music acts , so save the date for an unforgettable night out spreading the Pride message of love , acceptance and equality at the end of the summer season .
These events are so much more than an excuse for a party . Joyous , empowering and diverse , Kent ’ s Pride parties are an opportunity to truly create and celebrate positive change - and have a pretty incredible time doing it ! Wherever you ’ re headed to join in this year , head to www . visitkent . co . uk for all the up-to-date event information and inspiration !
90 • www . insidekent . co . uk