Recently launched by the Midlands LGBT+ Project, Athlone’s inaugural Pride event, Heartlands Pride, will take place this weekend, from November 10-12 inclusive.
Speaking this week, a spokesperson for the Midlands LGBT+ Project stated that the event is a celebration of diversity, and acceptance, and is open to everyone, regardless of background.
“The Midlands LGBT+ Project have been working tirelessly to make Heartlands Pride a reality and are thrilled to have the support of the local community and businesses. This event is a celebration of diversity, and acceptance, and is open to everyone, regardless of background.
“It is an opportunity for the community to unite and show their support for a more diverse community in Athlone and to create a safe and welcoming environment for all.
“From November 10-12, Heartlands Pride will have a number of events running with the support of local businesses spreading across the town. From market stalls highlighting local artists, information workshops spreading the power of education, an evening of entertainment and dance, there is certain to be an event for all to enjoy and connect with others alike!
“The event is not just about having fun and celebrating, but also about raising awareness of the issues faced by the LGBT+ community in Athlone and the surrounding midlands area. The information workshops will cover a range of topics, including terminology and support for LGBT+ people. There will also be opportunities to meet and connect with other LGBT+ people, as well as allies, who share similar values and experiences.
“Heartlands Pride is an important step forward for Athlone and the wider LGBT+ community. It’s a chance to show that no matter who you are or who you love, we should take pride in both ourselves and our wider community,” the spokesperson stated.
Hearltand s Pride events will start on Friday with an open information session for parents and guardians, covering the basics of LGBT+ and how to be an ally. This workshop will be hosted in the Youth Work Ireland Midlands Offices from 6-7pm.
A social party comprising games, music, and pizza for ages 14-18, providing a fun and safe space for LGBT+ youth will be held in the Youth Work Ireland Midlands offices from 6-9pm.
The night will culminate with a fine wine and cheese occasion in FINE Café from 8-10pm - ticket includes one glass of wine and a selection of Irish meats and cheeses.
Saturday will start with a Pride breakfast in the Bastion Kitchen from 10-11.30am with tea, coffee and nibbles provided.
A Rainbow Umbrella Market highlighting some of Ireland’s best local queer artists, hosted by Dead Centre Brewing will take place from 12-5pm with a raffle of numerous amazing prizes to take place at 4pm at the same venue.
Including performances from Haus of KWEN, AS Above so Below, and many others, the Heartlands Pride After Party will take place in Karma Nightclub from 9pm-late. An additional evening raffle will be held with more prizes to be given away!
Heartlands Pride concludes on Sunday, events commencing with the Light of Heartlands Pride Vigil to take place in Burgess Park at 1pm, where past members of the LGBT+ community will be commemorated.
The Abbey Road Artists Studio will host ‘The Art of Drag’ Artsy Afternoon from 2-4pm, an open art workshop relating to the art of drag, with two fabulous queens to guide those in attendance through the occasion.
A Trans Social Gaymes Night - bring your own board games - for the trans and non-binary community concludes weekend proceedings. Details of this event can be found by messaging the Heartlands Pride instagram page.
All tickets and details can be found on eventbrite, or on the Heartlands Pride Instagram page.
