Whilst I am hugely liberal, and love the ideas, ethos and community spirit behind Pride, crowds of people (especially people off their faces) aren't really my thing, so although I went to look at the decorations last year, I stayed away from the actual event as much as possible.
I'll be leaving Brighton in mid-August and heading off to pastures new (and green hopefully, as I'll be in Oxfordshire!) for an amazing new job, so I decided to man-up and at least see the parade this year. I'm currently 'homeless' and living on the floor of my amazing friends - fortunately they wanted to see it too, so at least I had company. Our friends from work were on one of the floats, so that sealed the deal - we definitely couldn't miss it this year!
The parade was due to start at 11am from Hove Lawns, and work its way through Brighton, finishing in Preston Park where the main event is due to continue long into the night. Although the start was delayed by an hour due to a bomb scare (which triggered 'suspect package' jokes throughout the Twittersphere) and rerouted slightly, when it got going it was amazing! Thousands of people lined the streets of Brighton, covered in rainbows and outlandish drag costumes, waiting to see the floats. Each float was run by a different business or organisation, and each had its own theme, and all were amazing!!
My favourites were the Dogs Trust (MASSIVE dog on the back of their float), all the emergency services (hot fireman on stilts and a bunch of paramedics doing the Conga helped this) and Unite, which was super colourful. It genuinely made us all feel really emotional as they came past; there were people from all walks of life, all celebrating their freedom and right to express themselves. From parents of gay and lesbians, to people marching for countries who don't have the same freedom (there were a LOT), and even a small group of Christians; everyone clubbed together, and made their point with an incredible festive atmosphere. I don't think I've ever heard so much ABBA, Madonna and Lady Gaga in such a short space of time. ;)
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so rather than me rabbiting on, check out my pictures below!
