A street party and a variety of other events are planned as part of a four-day celebration for Skipton Pride next month.
Organisers say Skipton Pride promises to be a "vibrant and family-friendly event that embraces the spirit of diversity, equality, community, love and friendship", when it takes place from 6th to 9th July in the town.
This year's Pride has been put together by the North Yorkshire Council Cultural Services Team at Skipton Town Hall in collaboration with Skipton Town Council, Skipton BID, Skipton Library, North Yorkshire Youth Voice, SELFA Children's Charity, Craven College, and North Yorkshire Youth Charity.
Celebrations begin on Thursday 6th July, with Drag Queen Story Hour UK at Skipton Library. Also on Thursday is an opportunity to see “Confetti” - a comedy theatre show from the award-winning Quick Duck Theatre.
On Friday 7th, people can get involved with a family story time and craft activity at Skipton Library, and for the grown-ups only there will be a special Pride edition of Skipton Comedy Live at the Town Hall, featuring four LGBTQIA+ comedians.
Saturday 8th July promises more interactive and engaging events with Skipton Library hosting a Lego Club and a zine-making workshop, while the Town Hall, Craven Museum will offer “Pride Make & Take” free family crafts.
On Sunday 9th July, the Pride Street Party promises an assortment of food, drink, and shopping opportunities, with a range of community stalls to explore. Indoor and outdoor entertainment and activities, sponsored by Albion Place retail hub, will be provided. It will be held at the Skipton Town Hall complex, which includes Jerry Croft, Albion Place Amphitheatre, with additional activity taking place at Skipton Library.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for culture, arts and housing, Cllr Simon Myers, said: “The Skipton Pride celebration is a reflection of North Yorkshire community's commitment to inclusivity and acceptance.
“We are thrilled to bring Pride to our North Yorkshire market town, giving access to rural communities. Skipton Pride presents a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality of Skipton, while also championing the values of acceptance and equality.
“I hope as many people as possible come along and take part in this year’s celebrations of love, friendship and unity.”
Pride Street Party details for 9th July
The Pride Street Party day begins with a Get Ready for Pride event for young people at the Town Hall. Glitter and face paints will be provided for those who would like to use them.
Free entertainment will include a headline performance from Choriza May, star of RuPaul’s Drag Race, as well as Amanda Lovett from the BBC hit show, The Traitors, electro pop duo Neon Town, Connor Fisher, Craven College Performing Arts students, Fifth Apollo, Skipton Ukulele Club, Alannah Rose, FusionXtreme, and DJ Michael Upson. There will be outdoor entertainment throughout the day including The Big Gay Disco Bike.
Activities include a Yarndale Pride Workshop in the Town Hall education room, rapping workshops at Albion Place Amphitheatre, a ‘Youth Pride, Loudly Proud!’ workshop and a ‘Create and Animate’ workshop at the library, delivered by North Yorkshire Youth Voice.
In addition, there will be plenty of community stalls including Craven Youth Council, SELFA Children’s Charity, North Yorkshire Youth, Skipton Step Into Action, Exclusively Inclusive, North Yorkshire Fire, YorSexual Health, North Yorkshire Together, Samaritans, Bradford & District Community Empowerment Network, Craven Mental health Support Team, Healthwatch North Yorkshire, and IDAS.
For event tickets and further information about Skipton Pride, visit skiptontownhall.co.uk
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