Blackburn Pride is set to be even bigger and better in 2023!

When we talk about pride – and we mean real pride and by the absolute bucket full – there’s one event that’s not to be missed in 2023… it is, of course, Blackburn Pride!

This year the event is being held in Blackburn Town Centre, on Saturday, June 17^th.

The first event blew everyone away with more than 1,000 people turning out to celebrate life and diversity in our borough.

A packed Pride parade featured live performances, street magic, aerial artists, Blackburn’s People Choir and more – hours and hours of family-friendly fun.

Councillor Julie Gunn, Deputy Leader of the Council, is one of the founding members of the Blackburn Pride Committee. She said:

We started out as just a very small committee and everything had to be done on a shoestring budget with much of the promotion being done by word of mouth.

When the parade made its way through the town centre I was absolutely overwhelmed – there were more people there than I could have ever imagined.

There was a really great feeling in the crowd too – one of pure joy and happiness.

It was a fantastic celebration of Pride in the LGBTQ+ community and also a celebration of the borough and its diversity which is embraced.

Our Fostering service – Let’s Foster – are one of the sponsors of Blackburn Pride. If you are interested in becoming a foster carer for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council make sure you visit their stall!

The free event is in its second year and takes place at King William St in Blackburn until 6pm on the 17^th of June.

The parade starts at 12pm from Blackburn bus station.

Julie added:

For many of the people who came last year, it was their first experience of a Pride event and they absolutely loved it.

It’s a family-friendly event for the whole borough and this year we’ll be back in Blackburn’s Town Hall Square again.

Come and enjoy the party – this is a real celebration of life’s rich diversity and everyone is welcome.

For more details visit the Blackburn Pride website: https://www.blackburnpride.co.uk/ or Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BlackburnPRIDE/