Margate Pride returns this August with a daytime festival at Dreamland, the parade and some 100 events.
The daytime festival on Saturday, August 9 at Dreamland includes alternative drag beauty pageant Mx Margate, performances from local groups including the Social Singing Choir, and a soon to be announced special performer taking place between 2pm and 8pm after the march reaches it the seafront destination.
The parade begins at Walpole Bay Lawns, and residents and community groups are being encouraged to gather from noon, ahead of the march beginning at 1pm.
Last year, more than 6,000 people took part in the parade and some 20,000 participated in the festival as a whole.
Margate Pride is funded primarily by locals and grants – instead of corporate sponsorship- with the aim of giving back to the community.
The Margate Pride Arts Map is taking place again with some 30 venues involved. As well as boosting the local economy, by introducing locals and tourists to some of Margate’s best kept secrets – it’s supporting local artists.
Kavel Rafferty, Pride Art Map Curator and Producer, said: “Exhibiting as part of the Pride Art Map has helped artists secure residencies, go on to further arts education and secure bigger shows. We are excited to showcase lots of incredible talent!”
This year, a scheme for disabled artists also saw Lady Kitt awarded with a special exhibition at the Margate School.
Heritage grants have allowed Margate Pride to uncover the hidden and rich LGBTQ histories and diverse stories of the area which have been turned into events and zines this year.
Protest at the Margins will be a critical discussion at CAMP about the intersections of disability justice and the queer liberation movements, perfect fodder to set the tone for your Margate Pride weekend – Wed 6 Aug, 7:30pm – Pay what you can
Postcards from Margate: With a sunset background in the Turner Foyle Rooms, will have local legends read stories about being queer in Thanet – Fri 8 Aug, 8pm – £7
Official After Party at Dreamland’s Hall By The Sea with drag, DJs and Tom Rasmussen – Sat 9 Aug, 8pm – from £16
There are also over 100 events, exhibitions and parties organised by the local businesses who get behind Margate Pride.
Mia Pollak, Director of Margate Pride, said: “We proudly forefront LGBTQIA+ creatives to achieve our mission, and are so excited to see all the incredible exhibitions queer artists are presenting.”
People and businesses can assist from donating to Margate Pride running a promo to support Pride, to volunteering staff for the many volunteer roles needed to make Pride the safe and celebratory festival it is.
If you are interested in getting involved, email: [email protected]
