This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first Dublin Pride march which has evolved from a one-day event, into one of the biggest LGBTQIA+ festivals in the country.
A month-long celebration championing diversity, inclusion and the power of being your true, authentic self, Pride is an important way of increasing visibility, highlighting systemic issues and challenging stereotypes.
From parades to drag brunches and gay history walking tours, there’s plenty planned this weekend to mark the occasion so be sure to get out and show your support.
Dublin Pride Parade
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the Dublin Pride Parade will take place this Saturday with the theme of ‘Shine’. Festivities kick off at 12pm at O’Connell Street with the route taking participants across the Liffey before wrapping up at Merrion Square where you’ll find a dedicated Pride Village (more on that below). There’s no need to register, you can just show up on the day and support from the sidelines or join the march which will be led by this year’s Grand Marshall, Belong To – LGBTQ Youth Ireland, an advocacy organisation which provides services for LGBTQ+ children and young people across the country. More info here.
Pride Village
As mentioned, the parade route winds its way to Merrion Square, culminating with a free festival of LGBTQIA+ community and culture in Merrion Square Park from 1-7.30pm. Phil T. Gorgeous and Paul Ryder will be your main stage hosts with performances from Davina Devine, Regina George, Viola Gayvis, Dame Stuffy, Dublin Gay Men’s Chorus, Glória, Sparkle and Trad Is Amach. There will also be free water refill points and plenty of tasty bites courtesy of Food Town.
Mother Block Party
One of the highlights on the annual Dublin Pride calendar, the Mother Block Party returns to Collins Barracks once again this year. Taking place on Saturday, July 29 from 4-11pm, there will be live acts throughout the day along with fairground rides and multiple bars too. Featured artists set to make an appearance include Swedish rapper Cobrah, electronic music sensation Princess Superstar, veteran of the dance music scene Robin S, Ru Paul’s Drag Race winner, Sasha Velour and Northern Irish drag sweetheart, Blu Hydrangea. Other acts appearing across the site include Sing Along Social, Drag Aerobics, Ping Pong Disco, Claire Beck, Conor Behan, Billy Bunzari, Ghostboy, Glamo, Rocky T. Delgado, Roo Honeychild and Ruth Kavanagh. Tickets start at €45 and you can get yours here.
Taylor Swift Drag Brunch
Brunch? Say no more. Taking place at Wigwam this Friday, €45 will get you a delicious breakfast, three cocktails and two hours of fun all soundtracked by some of Taylor Swift’s greatest hits.
The Secret History of Gay Dublin Tour
For something a bit different, this walking tour of the capital is a very enjoyable day out. Running on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday this week, your guide will take you to some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Dublin’s fair city, filling you in on the political and cultural figures’ stories of rebellion and our country’s queer history along the way. Tickets cost €15.99 with 25% of sales going to Outhouse.
Pride Month at EPIC
This Pride Month, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is offering free tours highlighting important LGBTQIA+ stories – from Dr James Barry who completed the first successful caesarean in the world, to prolific award-winning lesbian author Emma Donoghue. Tours take place daily at 1pm right up to June 29.
Jam session at the Racket Club
Located at the Bernard Shaw out in Drumcondra, the Racket Store is a record store by day, and event space by night. Born of the idea that all thriving music scenes have hubs – a place where creatives can meet to discuss ideas, meet new people, and be inspired – they’ll be celebrating pride in style by playing some of the best music produced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Browse through the records, grab a bite at Eatyard and then call back later for Pride after-party.
Dyke Night at the Workman’s Club
Join Dublin Pride and Dublin Lesbian Line at The Workman’s Club this Friday for an unforgettable evening of entertainment and dancing. Doors open at 8pm with a variety show bringing some of the best queer talent Ireland has to offer starting at 9pm. Things don’t end there though and there will be DJs on until the early hours. At the moment, all tickets are sold out but there is a waitlist so be sure to check the website for updates.
Rathaus x NSFW Pride Party
Following the success of last year’s sold-out event, Rathaus is bringing their Pride Party back once more. Titled ‘Renaissance’, the event is all about embracing the spirit of rebirth as we celebrate love, freedom, and queer joy. Less than 50 tickets remain and you can get yours here.
GPO Pride Tour
Located within one of Ireland’s most famous buildings, the GPO Museum will be holding a special guided tour this Saturday commemorating LGBTQIA+ history. Exploring the lives, relationships and roles of a community whose impact on Irish history is often unrecognised, your guide will bring you through the difficulties faced by queer individuals in the 20th century as well as their efforts towards Irish independence and equality. You can find out more details and book your ticket here.
Happy Pride one and all!
Feature image via Mother Club
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