Mullingar Pride look forward to this year's parade and WERK! Fest
The Mullingar Pride committee were able to look back on their inaugural event in 2022 with the satisfaction of a job well done, when they announced their 2023 plans at Belly Cafe on Mount Street, last Saturday.
Addressing the gathering, committee member Ruth Illingworth said: “It’s great that we’re all here tonight to mark the launch of Pride 2023. Last year we had a truly amazing event in this town, it was a historic moment in Mullingar.
“It was marvelous to see the rainbow flags and the warm and friendly reception we got as we marched. The support from the gardaí and from the people of Mullingar was something really special – and we are looking forward to an even bigger and better Pride this July.”
Robert Troy, TD, was present for the launch and he added his support. He said it is great to see Mullingar Pride building on the inaugural parade of last year. “I’m delighted to see it happening again in 2023 and looking forward to supporting the committee this year.”
Mark Reynolds, a member of the founding committee last year, agreed that Mullingar Pride is going from strength to strength, and he is delighted to see that. “We are looking forward to having another vibrant, inclusive and exciting Pride festival again this year,” he said.
Mullingar Pride 2023 will follow a similar format to the successful one of last year, starting with a march through the town centre on Saturday July 8. “That will light up the town with rainbow colours and Pride,” said committee PRO, Eibhlin Fitzpatrick.
“Following the parade, the WERK! Fest is at Belvedere House and Gardens and some of Ireland’s best drag and music acts are coming in celebration of Mullingar’s second Pride festival.”
Eibhlin explained that the WERK! Fest is a concert and show in one, featuring LGBTQ+ performers and special guests from the world of drag entertainment, pop music and more. “It’s a true celebration of queer culture and is not to be missed,” she said.
Ahead of the day in July, the committee have planned fundraising events, such as a drag show and quiz night, ‘Paint and Prosecco’ and the ‘Drag Brunch’ .
Daniel Boyne, event manager of WERK! Fest and chairperson of Mullingar Pride, said: “WERK! Fest is designed in a day-festival setting. It is going to be great craic, and will have something for everyone. The Mullingar Pride committee want to ensure that the queer community feel celebrated.”
Event dates:
Drag and quiz bight – Saturday April 1, Danny Byrne's, Mullingar.
Drag brunch – Saturday April 22, Daly’s Bar, Mullingar.
Paint and Prosecco – Saturday May 20, Belly Café, Mullingar.
Drag brunch – Sunday June 4, Daly’s Bar, Mullingar.
Pride Parade and WERK! Fest – Saturday July 8, Mullingar.