The LGBTQ+ community in Cheltenham turned out in record numbers for the first Cheltenham Pride Parade in over a decade on Saturday 13 May 2023.
Organised by Cheltenham Pride and Pride in Gloucestershire, the event saw over 1,000 people dressed up in a rainbow of colourful costumes take to the streets as part of the parade, which was initially only expecting around 100 attendees.
The Pride Parade kicked off a whole day and night of celebrations to show support for the local LGBTQ+ community, with the Cheltenham Pride Festival, headlined by RuPaul's Drag Race UK contestant, Copper Topp, taking over Imperial Gardens for a day of drag acts, live music, street food and fierce fashion. DEYA Brewery then hosted the unforgettable afterparty with a live broadcast of the Eurovision Song Contest final.
Chair of Cheltenham Pride, Anya McKenna, said: 'The LGBTQ+ community of Cheltenham is in for some much-needed celebration and connection this May. We are overwhelmed by the support and turnout we received for the event. It's a testament to the strength and solidarity of our community, and it shows that Cheltenham embraces and supports all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.'
Cheltenham Pride was established in 2022, with the goal of connecting the town's LGBTQ+ community and creating a 'safe and inclusive space where people can come together to celebrate their true authentic selves.'
The first Cheltenham Pride event took place at Pittville Park last year, with the 2023 event surpassing organisers' wildest expectations and the organisation sharing its 'deepest gratitude to all attendees, volunteers, sponsors and the local community for their invaluable support in making the Cheltenham Pride Festival a resounding success.'
