Chester Pride 2015: What to expect on the day

Momentum is gathering for the third annual Chester Pride festival which takes place on Saturday October 3.

This year’s festival, which celebrates equality, diversity and the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, promises to be ‘bigger and better than ever’ and will this time feature a fun fair and activities for children as well as entertainment for older people.

A colourful parade through Chester city centre will kick off proceedings at midday, with LGBT friendly groups, organisations, charities and businesses all invited to be involved; before the rest of the day’s entertainment begins at Castle Square, ending in a headline performance on the main stage by DJ and singer Sonique.

David Redpath-Smith, Chair and Director of Chester Pride said: “Whilst we would encourage everyone to ensure they have a fun filled day, we would also like to remind everyone of the true meaning of Pride. This is that equality is a human right, and something we should have in all countries throughout the world no matter who you are.

“Our aim is to ensure that Chester Pride remains a community event, but also that it reflects the great heritage of the city. We would like to thank all our sponsors, supporters and those who have donated money to keep Chester Pride a free event, the Chester Pride Committee and Glitter Lounge Coordinators who have worked tirelessly all year, for their dedication and perseverance.”

Cheshire West and Chester Council leader, Cllr Samantha Dixon has also lent her support to the event, adding: “The rainbow flag is flying over many parts of Chester, reflecting the vibrancy and diversity of our city.

“Cheshire West is moving forward at a significant pace, celebrating all cultures and communities, encouraging equality for all. I am delighted to support this important community celebration, bringing together residents, businesses and visitors. My congratulations to the organisers, sponsors and volunteers for their support of this community event, which emphasises respect, innovation, diversity, equality and openness to everyone. My best wishes to all the participants for a most successful Pride.”

You can see a programme of events here:

Main Stage line-up:

1.10pm - Indigo City, Shagger, Chester Pride’s Got Talent, Chester Operatic Society

2pm - Sharon Wallace, Jason Prince, Kelly Wilde, Jess Kemp

3.30pm - Angie Brown, Bette Midler tribute by Sharon Wallace, Viaduct Starlets

4.30pm - Pop Vox Choir, Madonna tribute by Melissa Totten, Click 22, Baby Brave

6pm - Jason Dignam, Harmonee

6.30pm - Marmac, Sonique

Glitter Lounge entertainment :

From 1.30pm - Mysti Vine burlesque show, Rusty Von Chrome, Bexi Owen Vintage Songbird, Ooty & the Cloud 70s vibe sing-along, Serpentine tribal belly dancing, Morning Star burlesque performer, Spencer Maybe acoustic tunes.

Alternative Performance Marquee :

2.45 - 3.30pm - Drag makeovers in association with Urban Decay

3.30-4.30pm - Dr Sketchy’s Anti Art School

4.30 - 5.15pm - Lip Syncing Competition

5.15pm - Sukki Singapora

A number of after parties will take place in various places in Chester following the event, including at Liverpool Arms from 8pm, Bar 6T9 from 10pm, Telfords Warehouse where entry is £4 after 9pm and at The Old Queens Head from 8pm.

CWaC have confirmed the following roads will be closed from 11.30am on October 3 for a maximum duration of an hour and a half.