CLARE Pride will return for its fifth year in September, with QuareClare announcing a programme of events taking place across the county from September 16 to 20.
The programme includes a Pride march in Ennis, family events, workshops, screenings, live entertainment and community gatherings.
QuareClare, which began as a grassroots Zoom-based organisation during the Covid-19 pandemic, now has more than 100 members and works to promote inclusion, equality and support for the LGBTQIA+ community across Clare.
Orla Vaughan, Secretary of QuareClare, said Pride was a celebration for the wider community.
“The biggest misconception about Pride events is that they are meant only for members of the LGBTQIA+ community,” she said.
“In fact, we are celebrating the growing health and strength of a vibrant, diverse and nurturing community that includes not only ourselves — but our friends, families, employers, co-workers, and allies of all sorts.”
She invited people across Clare to take part in the events.
“We invite everyone – regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity – to join together in this celebration of joy and solidarity,” she said.
The programme begins on Wednesday, September 16 with a “Speaking of Inclusion” session hosted by Shannon Toastmasters at St Senan’s Primary School in Shannon.
Events continue on Thursday with a Pride Prayer Service at St Columba’s Church of Ireland in Ennis and an LGBTQ+ inclusion workshop in Shannon Town Centre.
Friday’s programme includes Pride at the Market at the Farmers Market in Ennis, an online session on neurodiversity-affirming therapy for the LGBTQIA+ community, and a Culture Night art workshop at Súil Gallery in Ennis.
The Clare Pride March will take place in Ennis on Saturday, September 19, beginning at Barrack Close at 12.30pm.
A Family Fun Day will follow at glór, featuring performers, a puppet show, children’s art workshops, Drag Storytime and local craft stalls.
Other events on Saturday include a queer book club at Scéal Eile Books, a screening of the documentary Lesbian Lines at ARC Cinema and an after party at the VIP Bar in The Queen’s Hotel.
The programme will conclude on Sunday, September 20 with a group swim with Ballybathers at Bishops Quarter in Ballyvaughan and a stand-up comedy workshop and show with Breda Larkin at Ennis Community Centre.
Additional events may be announced in the coming weeks.
Further information, including ticket details and registration information, is available from QuareClare at info@quareclare.ie or through its Linktree.
