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15th June 2018
11:22am BST
Pride season is almost upon us and with it comes a summer of inclusivity, equality and those glorious rainbow flags.
Every county in Ireland celebrates Pride on different weekends, which means you have ample opportunity to see what the festival is like all over the country.
With that in mind, here's a roundup of the best parades and events around Ireland for this year's revelries.
Saturday, June 30.
Sashay your way from St. Stephen's Green to Smithfield at the nation's biggest Pride parade. This year's theme is 'We Are Family' - and festival organisers are encouraging attendees to think big with their costumes:
"Let’s make it an explosion of colour, music, glitter, sequins and even feather boas... to show how you live, love and are proud."
Entertainment and live events kick off at Stephen's Green around midday, before the parade pushes off at 2pm.
Saturday, June 30.
No bucket list would be complete without the famous Mother Pride Block Party in association with Smirnoff.
Reach new heights of Pride delight at this year's after-party on Saturday June 30 at the Tivoli Theatre Festival site.
This site has been completely revamped to include bespoke interactive installations, new bars, food stalls, Smirnoff cocktails and a massive new main stage.
The lineup will include Nadine Coyle as headliner, DJ sets from Jake Shears of the Scissor Sisters, Kelly-Anne Byrne, Little Boots, Mother DJs and the Queen of Ireland, the inimitable Panti Bliss, as well as live sets from Wyvern Lingo and Faune.
Tickets are on sale now and start from €16.61.
Sunday, August 5.
This is the 12th year of the Cork Pride parade and it's one of the most famous parades in the country. Last year, it came complete with the most fabulous rainbow - although we can't guarantee that this year.
Sunday, August 5.
Where the parade ends, the party starts - with DJs and live bands that will keep the festivities going from the afternoon straight through to the night.
The party kicks off with live acts at the Main Stage on the Grand Parade at 3pm. There'll be food stalls and family-friendly chill out picnic zones in Bishop Lucey Park - so everyone is welcome to join in the fun. Isn't that what Pride is all about?
TBC
Participants can compete in the Stiletto Dash, Handbag Toss or Lipstick Relay - what's not to love? Last year's event was held at Bishop Lucey Park and also featured Giant Twister, Sumo Wrestling and Karaoke. There's also a Pride-themed market if you fancy a stroll to soak up the carnival atmosphere.
Saturday, August 18.
Celebrating 28 years of Pride, the Galway parade is not to be missed. Last year's parade boasted the largest attendance yet - so we'd imagine this year's will be bigger again. Club GASS at the Roisin Dubh, is always hopping during the festivities, with performances and live acts taking you into the early hours.
October 5 & 6
It isn't strictly a Pride event, but this is a world famous gay music and matchmaking festival - so well worth a place on your Pride celebration calendar. Now in its sixth year, the festival boasts Irish and International acts and stars, pop-up clubs, drag performances, comedy, live music, outdoor walks and surfing. The stunning West Coast setting is an added bonus.
Saturday, July 7
The parade is the highlight of the Limerick festival, kicking off at 2:30pm on Saturday, starting and finishing at City Hall.
This is full of colour, dance, music and theatrics, and this year's after party is set to be bigger than ever. Limerick actor and playwright Myles Breen will be holding his annual Tea Dance, which for many is a highlight of the festival.
Saturday, September 1
Keep your dancing shoes on after the parade and open-air concert because Newry Pride is bringing back the very successful Pride Ball in Bellinis.
More information coming soon.
Saturday, July 7
Three venues, The Warehouse, Upstairs in Dolans and Kasbah Club, all under one roof to bring you one mahoosive Pride party.
Headliners this year include, Ian Van Dahl & Lasgo and they will be joined by Europe's number one Pink Tribute, Laura Tapp.
Other acts include Mia Gold , Letycha Le'Synn, Fada, Olivia Chau, Kiki St Clair, Kesh & Saved By The 90's.
Pre tickets are on sale & can be purchased online at www.dolans.ie or Ticketmaster.ie
Where will you be celebrating Pride this year? Let us know in the comments.
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