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  • Writer's pictureDouglas Grays

Worthing Pride

Updated: Jun 16, 2023

Worthing Pride 2023


Rainbow flags flying high, music pulsating through the streets, and people of all ages and backgrounds coming together in a joyful celebration - this is Worthing Pride. It's a day where love, acceptance, and freedom are celebrated with open arms. This year its on the 7th and 8th July 2023


Worthing Pride Flags
Worthing Pride Flags


Worthing Pride isn't just another festival; it's an affirmation of diversity and inclusivity that brings together the LGBTQ+ community all those who support them from across Sussex. The event has grown in popularity over the years, drawing crowds from far beyond the town itself to revel in the vibrant atmosphere. With colourful floats, live performances, food stalls serving up tasty treats, and plenty of opportunities for dancing and socializing, Worthing Pride is truly a spectacle to behold. Join us as we explore what makes this annual gathering so special - a beacon of hope for those seeking liberation, acceptance, and equality.

History Of Worthing Pride


Worthing Pride has come a long way since its inception. The history of Worthing Pride is filled with moments that showcase the power of love and acceptance, and how they can bring together an entire community. From humble beginnings to becoming one of the most anticipated events in the town's calendar, this celebration of diversity has always had something special about it.


Parallelism plays a crucial role in understanding what makes Worthing Pride so unique. It's not just about celebrating LGBTQ+ culture; it's about giving people permission to be themselves without fear or judgement. The first Worthing Pride event was in July 2018 attracting thousands of people.The parade started at The Burlington Hotel on Marine Parade and finished at Beach House Grounds. There were food & drink stalls & performers including Miss Disney, Sally Vate, Miss Jason and drag queen Spice was the compere.Kids rides ran all day at Denton Gardens Groups joined in the celebration including Adur and Worthing Councils, Unite, GlaxoSmithKline, Scouts groups, cheerleading groups and the Celebration Samba Band.The main sponsor of the event were The Cow Shed in Worthing, who set up a fabulous cocktail bar. Other sponsors were Equiniti, Unite, Leaders Estate agents in Worthing, with support from Southern Water and South Downs Leisure.

Since then, Worthing Pride has grown into an annual festival that brings communities closer together through music, performances, food stalls and more.


For those who crave freedom from the constraints of old fashioned or social prejudice , Worthing Pride provides a space where they can let their hair down and express themselves freely. It creates an environment where everyone feels welcome regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Every year thousands flock to the seaside town for this weekend-long celebration that serves as a beacon of hope for many.


The evolution of Worthing Pride continues every year with new events and activities added each time around. People come together to dance, sing along to live music acts while feasting on delicious street food under sunny skies (weather permitting). In the next section, we'll delve deeper into all the exciting happenings you can expect at the upcoming pride festivities!

Events And Activities At Worthing Pride


As the saying goes, "all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." That's where Worthing Pride comes in! This annual event brings together people from all walks of life and ages (children under 12 go free) to celebrate diversity and promote equality. From live music performances to drag shows, there is something for everyone at this colourful festival.



Worthing Pride Participants
Worthing Pride


One highlight of Worthing Pride is the parade that winds its way through the town centre. It's hard not to feel a sense of joy as you watch groups waving banners promoting LGBTQ+ rights or families dressed up in rainbow colours walking alongside their children. The atmosphere is electric, with cheers and applause ringing out as floats pass by.


But it's not just about partying - there are also informative talks and workshops on offer throughout the day, covering topics like mental health, gender identity, and sexual health. These sessions provide an opportunity for attendees to learn more about important issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community and how they can get involved in making positive change happen.


The impact of Worthing Pride on the community cannot be overstated. By bringing together individuals from different backgrounds under one banner of love and acceptance, it fosters a sense of unity that extends beyond the event itself. People leave feeling empowered and inspired to continue fighting for equal rights for all members of society.


As we move into exploring the impact that Worthing Pride has had on its community, it's clear that this event isn't just a celebration - it's a catalyst for change.

Impact Of Worthing Pride On The Community


Worthing Pride has had a tremendous impact on the community, creating an inclusive environment and promoting acceptance of all individuals regardless of sexual orientation. The event draws in people from various backgrounds who come together to celebrate diversity and show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.


For example, let's take Sarah, a Worthing resident who has always struggled with her sexuality due to societal pressures. She attended Worthing Pride last year and was overwhelmed by the love and support she received from attendees. It gave her the courage to come out to her family and friends, ultimately leading to greater self-acceptance and happiness.


But it's not just about individual experiences. The positive impact of Worthing Pride extends to the wider community as well. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic during the event, boosting sales and revenue, while also helping to break down barriers between different groups within society.


Overall, there is no denying that Worthing Pride plays a vital role in fostering inclusivity and acceptance within our community. By celebrating diversity through events like this, we can continue to work towards building a more tolerant and accepting society for everyone - because at the end of the day, freedom should be something that belongs to us all.


Conclusion


In conclusion, Worthing Pride has become a beacon of hope and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community in the seaside town. It started as a small gathering but has grown into an annual event that brings people together from all walks of life. The rainbow flags flying high over the promenade are now a symbol of inclusivity and diversity.


Attending Worthing Pride is like jumping into a pool on a hot summer's day; refreshing, exhilarating, and full of joy. It reminds us that love is love, regardless of gender or sexuality. As someone who identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community myself, seeing my hometown celebrate and welcome our identities fills me with pride (no pun intended). I can only hope that other towns follow suit and create their own celebrations to show support for those who have been marginalised for too long.


If you would like to come and enjoy the fun, consider staying at the fabulous Mojo Haus right on the seafront-a luxury ground floor apartment with seaview right on Marine Parade..just a few minutes walk from all the bars and restaurants but you will get a great night’s sleep in a peaceful spot.


You can book here www.mojohaus.co.uk


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