The countdown to Newcastle’s highly anticipated LGBTQIA+ event has begun, with the 2024 Newcastle Pride Festival set to take place from Friday October 11 to Sunday October 27. It promises to be an unforgettable celebration of love, diversity and unity under the banner of this year’s theme, “Your Voice, Your Story”.
“The theme this year is about listening to our LGBTQIA+ community and hearing the diverse and interesting stories they have to tell,” said Committee Member Jack Bailey. “Whether uplifting or challenging, everyone has a story to tell, and we want to amplify and hear all of them!”
Now in its fifth year, the festival promises an exciting lineup of diverse and fun events, catering to a wide range of interests and ages. Each event provides a unique platform for local and national performers to showcase their talents, whether it’s through drag shows, art exhibits, or creative workshops.
“Our Newcastle Pride Parade will be held within the festival period for the first time,” continued Jack. “Taking place on Saturday 12 October, dress in your brightest rainbow get-up and paint the Newcastle foreshore with a sea of pride! Whether you’re waving a flag, dancing in the streets, or simply cheering from the sidelines, your presence will make this celebration unforgettable.”
Premier queer dance party POOF DOOF will be coming to Newcastle for the first time ever on Saturday 19 October. Get your dancing shoes on and head down to The Newcastle Hotel for the official afterparty.
The festival plays a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting acceptance within the broader community, ensuring that the voices and stories of LGBTQIA+ individuals are heard and celebrated.
“Whether you’re waving a flag, dancing in the streets, or simply cheering from the sidelines, your presence will make this celebration unforgettable.”
After marriage equality was passed in 2017, Lee-Anne McDougall, founder and President, noticed that despite our region having one of the highest yes votes for marriage equality, there were very few events and no dedicated LGBTQIA+ venues for the community to gather and socialise.
This lack of opportunity left many feeling socially isolated and unsupported. Recognising the need for a space where the LGBTQIA+ community could come together, Lee-Anne was inspired to create Newcastle Pride, which led to the first Festival which took place from Friday, August 24 to Sunday, August 26, 2018 in Foreshore Park.
If your local business is interested in supporting the festival, the Committee encourages you to get in touch.
“We welcome all local businesses interested in sponsorship for the Newcastle Pride Festival to contact us and show our community that you support LGBTQIA+ events and charities,” said Jack. Businesses can also apply for stalls at the Newcastle Pride Fair Day.”
“We welcome all local businesses interested in sponsorship for the Newcastle Pride Festival to contact us and show our community that you support LGBTQIA+ events and charities. ”
