Blackburn Pride is set to return this month, and it promises to be an unforgettable experience! Mark your calendars for Saturday, 17th June, as Blackburn Town Centre becomes the vibrant hub of festivities.
Last year’s inaugural event brought over 1,000 people together to celebrate life and embrace diversity in our borough.
The pride parade took centre stage, with live performances, street magic, breathtaking aerial artists, and the melodies of Blackburn’s People Choir.
Councillor Julie Gunn, Deputy Leader of the Council and founding member of the Blackburn Pride Committee, shared her experience:
“We started out as just a very small committee and everything had to be done on a shoestring budget with much of the promotion being done by word of mouth.
“When the parade made its way through the town centre I was absolutely overwhelmed – there were more people there than I could have ever imagined.
“There was a really great feeling in the crowd too – one of pure joy and happiness.
“It was a fantastic celebration of Pride in the LGBTQ+ community and also a celebration of the borough and its diversity which is embraced.”
Now in its second year, this free event, which is sponsored by Secret Santa, will transform King William Street in Blackburn into a vibrant carnival until 6pm on June 17th with the parade kicking off at 12pm from Blackburn Bus Station.
Julie added:
“For many of the people who came last year, it was their first experience of a Pride event and they absolutely loved it.
“It’s a family-friendly event for the whole borough and this year we’ll be back in Blackburn’s Town Hall Square again.
“Come and enjoy the party – this is a real celebration of life’s rich diversity and everyone is welcome.”
For more information and updates, visit the Blackburn Pride website: https://www.blackburnpride.co.uk/
The main sponsors of the event are Secret Santa (Platinum Sponsor), Blackburn with Darwen Council, Let’s Foster, Together Housing & Blackburn Rovers Community Trust.
