Thousands gather in city to celebrate York Pride
Thousands of people gather outside York Minster to begin the parade
- Published
Huge crowds have gathered in York to mark the city's biggest free Pride event.
Thousands arrived at York Minster on Saturday morning, many dressed in rainbow colours, for the parade at 12:00 BST.
Families, businesses and local groups were in attendance and headed off on the 2.4-mile (3.9 km) parade route.
The lively journey ended at York Knavesmire, where a festival includes live performances and food stalls.
Ahead of York Pride, organisers said the 2024 event was "bigger and better" than ever, after listening to last year's feedback.
Greg Stephenson, chair of York Pride, said: "We have made some great changes, including adding in more accessible tracking, creating a food and drinks court area, as well as reviewing performance times so that everyone can enjoy the day."
York Pride said it had made some changes to the event, following feedback from last year
Thousands set off from York Minster on the 2.4-mile parade route
The parade route was lined with residents waving and cheering, as well as a choir stationed on Bishopthorpe Road.
This year, there was also the addition of "Quiet Hour" at York Knavesmire between 11:30 and 12:30.
Festival director, Will Bosanquet, said before the festival: "Offering a quiet hour is really important as we want the day to be enjoyed by all and accessible to as many people as possible.
"The music is turned off for this hour and the festival site is very calm, meaning that those wanting a more relaxed Pride have space to do that."
Pride goers dressed in their most colourful outfits and were draped in flags for the event
The weather stayed bright and dry ahead of the parade
The festival has 150 stall holders- 30 more than last year- providing face painting, Pride merchandise and food.
The bar and dance tent also made a return, as well as the York Pride Cabaret Stage.
Stars of RuPaul's Drag Race will be performing, as well as DJs and singers.
The festival is set to be "bigger and better" than ever, with 150 stalls
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