Fri 17 Mar 2017 In: New Zealand Daily News View at Wayback View at NDHA
The Wellington Pride Festival | Tū whakahīhī e Te Whanganui-ā-Tara is gearing up for a massive day tomorrow, with four main events lighting up the capital. Photo thanks to Wellington Pride With a fantasy themed Pride Parade, Out in the park, the Youth Ball and an after party all taking place in one day, Adrienne Girling, Chair of Wellington Pride says “The Wellington Pride Festival has been pumping with diverse events for two weeks and will culminate in a huge celebration for the whole community to enjoy this weekend.” Celebrating the queer and gender diverse communities of Wellington is the Pride Parade and Parade Director Amanduh la Whore says “Fantasy is the theme for this year’s Wellington Pride Parade, where we are encouraging individuals to be who they choose to be regardless of age, gender, sexual identity or culture. “It has been more that 25 years in the making but our Capital City is about to be eclipsed with imaginings of heart, mind and soul”. Making it’s way down Courtenay Place, into Taranaki Street and onto the waterfront, the Parade ends at Waitangi Park where annual favourite, Out in the Park, kicks off it’s 31st year. The Waitangi Park festivities will officially open at midday by Wellington Mayor Justin Lester. “There is something for everyone to enjoy, with more than 60 stalls, great food, a stunning line up of Wellington-based entertainers to wow the crowds, and thousands of spectators. All are welcome to come enjoy the day with family, friends and community,” says Girling. Following Out in the Park, is a Youth Ball for 13-18 year olds from the Wellington region, Wairarapa and Manawatu. With 400 young people expected to attend, the ball is where they can be whoever they want, however they want, and feel safe and empowered. “The Ball is for students who don't conform to sexuality or gender norms as the usual school balls are often unwelcoming - partners banned, dress codes enforced, and unsafe environments,” says Wellington Pride’s youth representative Bella Simpson. For those over 18 there is the after party at queer and gender diverse-friendly establishments Eva Beva and the Fat Angel. International drag artiste Pollyfilla—whose autobiographical show The Life and Times of the Divine Miss P is running at BATS theatre until Friday—will be among the performers for the night. For all event details please head to the the Wellington Pride Festival | Tū whakahīhī e Te Whanganui-ā-Tara website
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Friday, 17th March 2017 - 1:47pm