Stoke-on-Trent Pride is back in a NEW location - here's everything that's happening this weekend

The celebrations have found a new home this year in Hanley Park.

And chairman of Stoke-on-Trent Pride, Carl Gratty, said the move from Northwood Park was necessary as the festival gets bigger and better.

The 43-year-old, from Festival Park, said: "We have grown so much over the last three or four years, so we needed a bigger site. This time we've got classic cars, a full-sized fun fair and more stalls than we've ever had before."

Stoke-on-Trent Pride – which is now in its eleventh year - embraces LGBT+ equality and diversity issues across the city.

Carl said: "LGBT+ issues in Stoke-on-Trent are still quite challenging when compared to other parts of the country, so this makes the meaning of Pride even more poignant.

"This year is also a landmark year for the LGBT+ community as it signifies the 50th year of legalisation of homosexuality. There is still a long way to go with equality, but as long as Pride exists the fight will continue.

"We welcome everyone to attend the event, and to come with an open mind. You will encounter new experiences and mix with a huge variety of people from all walks of life."

Stoke-on-Trent Pride will take place in Hanley Park (postcode ST4 2DU) on Saturday, June 24. Gates will open from midday with the main arena opening at 1pm until 7pm.

This year the festival will include a main stage where up to 2,000 people can watch top class live acts, a fully licenced bar, up to 70 stalls including an actual oatcake boat, a full-size fun fair, street food from all over the world, a vintage singer, arts activities (sponsored by Appetite) and of course the famous not-to-be-missed parade from 2.15pm.



Pride works with many community groups and services, including the NHS (who will be providing a full sexual health screening service) the police, fire service, and army as well as local football clubs, businesses, and charities - these will all be represented too.

source: http://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/8203-stoke-on-trent-pride-is-back-in-a-new-location-8211-here-s-everything-that-s-happening-this-weekend-8230/story-30404584-detail/whatson/story.html