Big and bright, the Dublin LGBTQ Pride Festival is one of the largest festivals in Ireland and as well as being a whole lot of fun, plays an important role in celebrating diversity and creating mutual respect.

Whether you’re LGBTQ, have friends or family who are, want to learn more about diversity or just want to take part in an amazing festival, Dublin Pride 2011 from Friday 17th to Sunday 26th June is a festival that features events that will interest everyone. The jam-packed festival features a non stop 10 day line up including these fabulous free events:

Saturday 18th June – Merrion Square, 2pm
Walking Tour of Historic Gay Dublin

Meet by the Statue of Oscar Wilde, one of Ireland’s most famous gay sons, in Merrion Square for a tour of historic gay Dublin. Shining the light on Dublin’s hidden gay history, you will hear stories of the trial of Oscar Wilde, the theft of the Irish crown jewels, the emerging gay club scene of the 80’s, increased visibility of the LGBT community, 1993 decriminalisation of homosexuality and lots more rainbow coloured stories!

Sunday 19th June – Ringsend Park, 2pm to 6pm
Family Day, Sports Day & Dog Show

Try your hand at sports including the ‘handbag toss’ overseen by LGBTQ sports teams including the renowned rugby playing Emerald Warriors. For families there will be children’s entertainers, face painting and activities. Or pet lovers can put their dogs to the test for the chance to win ‘Dog Most Like Owner’ or ‘Best Dressed Dog’. Bring your picnic blanket for a day of fun for the whole family.

Monday 20th June – The Ormond Wine bar, 6.30pm
Dublin Pride Debate

Join the inteli-gays as they thrash out the motion, ‘The Pink Euro, exploited or exploitees?’ This is a chance to be seen and heard as well as watch and listen

Thursday 22nd June – The Front Lounge, 8pm
Géili

An Irish tradition that has become a Pride Festival tradition, a combination of traditional Irish music and dance. Dust off your brogues and grab a partner for this gay-style Céili.

Saturday 25th June – Parnell Square, 2pm
The Pride Parade

The highlight of the 10 day festival, be part of the Parade and march through the streets of Dublin City Centre. The Parade is second in size only to St Patrick’s Day as the largest parade in Ireland. Join with the colourful cast of characters and floats to fly the flag for equality!

DCC Amphitheatre, 3pm – 5.30pm
Post Parade Party

Celebrate at the legendary, fun-filled, outdoor Post Parade party. Leading community members will make rousing speeches before the party kicks off with musical performances from some of Ireland’s favourite pop acts including Crystal Swing!

Sounds like a helluva lot of fun!

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