Grand marshal and full line-up announced for first ever Roscommon Pride
Details of Roscommon's first ever Pride march were announced earlier this year at Roscommon Castle. Pic. David J.Pierce Blackhole Studio
Will Keane, a Roscommon-based LGBTQIA+ activist, has been named as the grand marshal for the first ever Roscommon Pride march.
Roscommon Pride’s inaugural march is set to take place on Saturday, August 24th at 2 p.m., starting at The Quad in Roscommon Town. LGBTQIA+ people, allies and supporters are invited to come along to what promises to be a weekend of celebration, fun and community spirit.
Will, who was heavily involved in Roscommon’s campaign for marriage equality in 2015, said he was excited to see his home county “celebrate difference and diversity” in such a public way.
“Looking back at a 14-year-old version of myself I could never have imagined being fully accepted in my own town. To imagine 30 years later that Roscommon Town is preparing itself to celebrate its first Pride festival is testament to the societal change within our country and county. I couldn’t be prouder to be Roscommon Pride’s first grand marshal.”
He went on to say: “Change is rarely sudden and not always obvious. A rainbow flag beside a till, a Pride sticker in the window or indeed an accepting smile can build a person’s sense of worth, sense of belonging and sense of acceptance. I’m overjoyed that the rainbow flag will fly proudly over this celebratory weekend and hope businesses, sporting organisations and schools bring the spirit of this weekend across the 52 weeks of the year. Nothing feels better than feeling included.”
Karina Murray, Event Manager of Roscommon Pride, said: “Roscommon Pride is more than just a march. The entire weekend will send a powerful statement of inclusivity to the whole county and will act as a platform to launch a year round LGBTQ+ community group in Roscommon. We invite everyone, LGBTQ+ folks and their allies, to join us in making history together.” Roscommon Pride has also unveiled its full line-up of events, which will take place over the course of the weekend of August 23rd-25th. Some events are ticketed. Details of tickets and pre-registration can be found on the website at www.roscommonpride.ie.
Friday Drag Bingo at the Red Parrot: Kicking off Roscommon Pride’s festivities is drag bingo in The Red Parrot in Roscommon Town. Hosted by the wonderful Donatello, this is sure to be a great start to Roscommon Pride. Doors at 8 p.m..
Saturday Strength in diversity: Celebrating LGBTQ+ resilience: Join the group at The Quad from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a powerful, in-depth discussion about LGBTQIA+ resilience. Pre-registration is essential via www.roscommonpride.ie.
Pride March: Roscommon’s first ever Pride march will kick off at The Quad from 2 p.m.. All are welcome. Groups or organisations who wish to march can register through the website.
Family fun day in Loughnaneane Park: After the Pride march a family fun day will be held at Loughnaneane Park with singers, dancers and performers on hand to entertain the crowds.
Pooch of Pride contest: Best-dressed dog competition in Loughnaneane Park at 3.30 p.m.. You can register online ahead of the event.
Pride Party at The Coachman’s Inn: Featuring performances by The HAUS of KWÉN followed by a DJ set until the late hours. Pre-drinks in the bar from 8 p.m. and private show for ticket holders only in the back from 9.30 p.m.
Sunday Colour Run: Get out your runners and come along to a family friendly colour run. All are welcome!
Boyle Film Screening: The Film Club in Boyle is hosting a screening of one of our most wonderful LGBTQIA+ movies on Sunday afternoon. Pre-registration is essential.
