Nottinghamshire Pride 2022 bigger and better than ever as thousands join colourful celebrations
A sea of rainbow colours washed over Nottingham as thousands of people descended on the city for Nottinghamshire Pride.
The celebration was the first full scale Pride since the pandemic, attracting roughly 15,000 people to the march, compared to the 9000 at last year's scaled-back event.
Organised and run by a team of volunteers, this year’s event followed the theme of ‘We See You’ in support of the region’s LGBTQ+ community and featured a vibrant display of culture and identity.
Spectators lined the streets as the annual march wound it's way through the city centre before finishing up in Broad Street.
It was led by a fire engine from Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service and followed by carnival themed marching bands; Nottingham Samba Collective and Can Samba who kept the public entertained with drums, dancers and howlers.
Nottinghamshire Pride chair Leigh Ellis was thrilled with the success of the day, saying: “We were expecting a good turnout but this far exceeded our expectations. The atmosphere was joyful and so many people have told us what a great time they had. It was wonderful to be back in full force.
“This event serves as a call to people to support our LGBTQ+ community and all those whose voices sometimes go unheard. With this year’s theme, we wanted to shine a light on all marginalised groups, including trans and non-binary, young and older LGBTQ+ people and people living with HIV/AIDs.”
More than 50 market stalls in neighbouring roads were hosted by organisations in support of the community with an eclectic array of singers, dancers, speakers, performers and DJs taking to the stage on Heathcoat Street, Hockley.
The day’s proceedings included a speech from Nottingham-born MP Nadia Whittome as well as performances from; David Bowie tribute band Miss Bowie and the New Killer Stars, singers Tom Aspaul, Jamie Fuxx, Rob Green and Bexx, Britney Spears tribute act Michaela Weeks and comedy cabaret favourites Scream Queenz. YouTube comedy star Charity Shop Sue also performed a DJ set.
Organisers worked closely with Nottingham City Council to put on the signature, not-for-profit event, which has had a presence in the city since 1997 and is funded entirely by sponsorships, partnerships and donations.
Sponsors and partners this year included Sladen Estates, Boots, Capital One, Cartwright Communications, Kuku Creative, Baxter Freight, Experian and Lush.
Craig Martin, co-chair of Nottinghamshire Pride, said: “We would like to thank our sponsors and everyone who supported us in making the event such a big success.
“The march was one of the most important aspects of the day, as people were able to show their solidarity for the whole community. Pride represents something different to so many different people, and that’s what makes it so special. We can’t wait to see what will happen next year!”
