Letterkenny was awash with rainbows today as the inaugural Pride parade took over Main Street.
There was spirited support for the event held to celebrate diversity and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community of Donegal.
Community groups from across the county donned their most vibrant clothes to symbolise their solidarity.
The parade was a mixture of music and fun, but also an opportunity for campaigners to highlight the fight for trans rights.
Moya Brennan and Majella O’Donnell at the Letterkenny Pride Parade 2023
Declan Meehan at the Letterkenny Pride Parade 2023
Letterkenny Pride was made possible with the determination of a 10-strong committee of members and non members of the LGBTQ+ community. Formed in June, the group has been working non-stop to garner support from local businesses and fund the celebration.
“Pride is about community. It is a magnificent celebration of diversity, a time to bring people together, and of course, a big day of fun. But beyond that, it is about showing members of the LGBTQ+ community who may feel marginalised, that they belong in this town, and in this county,” the committee said.
“In particular, we feel there is a huge need to show young LGBTQ+ folks that they do not need to leave their hometown in order to feel welcome. There has been a lot of progress seen in Donegal in recent years, and we want Letterkenny to continue to be a part of that positive change.”
The parade was preceded by a family fun day of activities and entertainment outside of An Grianán Theatre. An evening of more music is in store, as both up and coming and established local artists such as Without Willow, High Heeled Converse, Millie Greene, Shauna McDaid, George Hoston and world renowned Donegal artist Moya Brennan perform in the after party venues – McGinley’s Bar, The Cottage Bar and The Brewery/The Shack.
The Letterkenny Festival gig-rig will be positioned outside the library too, with acts featuring Arn, The Ephades and Irish singer/songwriter Mundy.
