It’s Pride month, so raise the rainbow flag, dust off your drag rags, and celebrate identity and diversity at the fabulous LGBTQIA+ festivals going on across Kent this summer!
Whether you fancy taking part in a march through the city, joining vibrant celebrations by the coast, partying in the park, or dancing into the small hours with drag queens, check out Pride events near you in the Garden of England this summer.
If you’re joining the celebrations in Kent, don’t forget to share your photos with us on Twitter and Instagram, and your top tips for mini-Pride events or parties for people to join.
Pride Canterbury, 10th & 11th June:
Canterbury pride is back with a spectacular parade along the High Street and entertainment in the Dane John Gardens over two days. The parade will feature live music and bring a carnival atmosphere to the city.
This year there will be the chance to upgrade to some exciting exclusive benefits, such as the Pride VFP (Very Fabulous Person) upgrade and the Meet & Greet!
National Trust Images: Arnhel de Serra
National Trust House Proud
South Foreland Lighthouse – 23rd September
We’ll be off to the White Cliffs of Dover later in the summer with the team from National Trust for a fabulous evening of queer art, history and mythology! The event will begin along The White Cliffs where you’ll be met by artists and performers, before walking to South Foreland Lighthouse for more fun! With drag, refreshments, music and activities, what more could you want for an amazing day celebrating Pride amongst the stunning setting of the lighthouse.
Folkestone Pride, 29th July:
Returning this year, Folkestone Pride is set to be even bigger for 2022 and has events all year round to celebrate!
The parade is set to start outside the Town Hall at 1pm before the live performances begin at the Bandstand which is set to have delicious food & drink vendors, as well as craft stalls and workshops. There will also be the chance to hear a Drag Storytime, before the celebrations are taken to The Leas Cliff Hall to dance the night away at the After Party! You can't really go wrong on a proud day out in Folkestone.
Faversham Pride, TBC:
Faversham will be hosting its third LGBTQ+ Pride event, with live music and good food aiding the celebration.
Garden Party
Pride should be an opportunity for everyone to celebrate the diversity of the community, so there is a planned a garden party for all ages to attend. Get ready for lots of games and activities!
Pride Party
The over 18s Pride night is going to be a night to remember, with everything you need to celebrate pride in style. Enjoy amazing drag acts and dance the night the way to the best house DJ and LED lights that will let you sparkle.
Margate Pride Day & Pride at Dreamland, 12th August:
It's all go here in Margate for a special Pride celebration this August! With workshops, performances & rally from 11am - 4pm and a parade departing from Oval Bandstand from 4pm - 6pm *More information and tickets coming soon!*
Then, we're off to Dreamland to continue the evening with a jam-packed line-up of your favourite performing artists, like B*Witched, Steps singer Claire Richards and Blue band member Duncan James, and of course some of the UK’s top drag artists including Jonbers, Just May and Le Fil.
Medway Pride, 14th - 19th August:
2023 will be Medway's biggest LQBTQIA+ event and it's back with an amazing schedule:
Rochester Castle Gardens open from 10:30am
Pride Parade Rochester High Street at 10:45am
Rochester Castle Stage opens 12:00pm
Gravesham Pride, 12th August:
Keep your eyes peeled as more information will be coming soon!
