11 Things to See & Do at Liverpool Pride 2016

Liverpool Pride 2016 is already in full swing this week ahead of the main march and brand new ‘We Are Family’ festival this weekend. Here’s our top 11 must see & do at this year’s event, and while you are here watch our video below with one of the Pride team Michael Carey about what we can expect.

1 – Forward March:

The Liverpool Pride march is always a fabulous mass of colour and sound and bubbles and flags, a real spectacle. Get yourself a good spec to see the performers and supporters in all their technicolour glory (we reckon Castle Street is the place to be) and check out the route and times here.

2- Lorra Lorra Laughs:

This year’s Pride theme is Liverpool Icons and we don’t need much encouragement to break the fancy dress box out. How many Lennon’s, Cilla’s and Lilly’s will you spot? Don’t miss Kate Bell performing a simply brilliant Cilla Black tribute on Sunday at 11:45 on the Plateau Stage.

3 – Light It Up:

The Iconic theme doesn’t stop at artists! Over the last couple of weeks, loads of prominent buildings around the region have supported the ‘Come Out of the Shadow’s’ campaign by being lit up in rainbow colours. If you’re out and about after dark and want to see this wonderful spectacle, check out the list of buildings here.

4 – Step in Style:

Into fashion? Don’t miss this year’s alternative fashion show on thee most iconic catwalk the city has to offer, the steps of St Georges Hall, with acrobats and stilt walkers too! Sunday at 11am and 1:50pm

5 – Family Affair:

New to this year’s festivities is ‘We are Family’, a festival event at St Johns Gardens and your little ones are also invited to head down and get involved with craft activities, trampolines and fairground rides. There’s tonnes of workshops and performances to get all ages busting some moves.

6 – Class Act:

Speaking of busting moves the FOUR, yep that’s FOUR stages across the St George Quarter are bursting with local talent and the headliner is none other than our very our fiery red-headed legend, Sonia. Radio City will be providing the entertainment with Leanne & Dave, Claire Simmo, Scott Hughes and the legend that is Pete Price hosting proceedings. Catch Mason Noise, Lucy Spraggan, Liverpool’s Clare Sophia, Karl Williams Lund and of course Sonia, alongside a whole host of local personalities, acts and choirs on both Saturday & Sunday. More info here.

Sonia. Picture Credit David Munn

7 – Step Back in Time:

One of our favourite acts across the weekend is The Mersey Belles, and cousins Nancy and Pearl will be taking you on a trip down memory lane on the Garden Stage with their impressive ukulele playing skills and vocals. We love their retro style!

8 – Chow Down:

Keeping you fed and watered through-out the weekend are a tonne of talented pop up vendors and bars. Fancy a curry, a burger or noodles? Fear not, you’ll be spoiled for choice with Gaucho BBQ, Perfect Samosa and Let’s Wok (to name just three of many) Cooking up a storm for the crowds.

9 – Houston We Have a Diva:

Resident Gbar Diva, Miss Whitney is also taking to the main stage this weekend having tread the LGBT scene boards for more than 10 years. Flanked by a team of kick-ass backing dancers, this high-energy extravaganza is not to be missed.

10 – Say Cheese:

Over at Liverpool One check out the Liverpool Icons photography project with LOOK. Take a leisurely wander towards the Pier Head to take in these brilliant images and stories and finish up at the rainbow lit Cunard Building to finish off your weekend!

11 – High Five:

If that’s not enough to get your right into the thick of the Pride festivities, how about lending a land? Liverpool Pride are always looking for volunteers and donations throughout the year to support the charity and challenge hate crime. Check out the details here liverpoolpride.co.ukk/contact/

With over 150 singers, artists, acts, performers, food vendors, fashionistas and a dedicated family festival, there really is something for everyone at Liverpool Pride 2016. Get your rainbow on and show your support.

Your full Liverpool Pride March route is here…

And buildings taking part in Come Out of the Shadows…