The idea
Based in Sunderland Sunniside Gardens area, and established in 1990 as an annual 1 day event in September, this is a much-loved event in the local calendar, attracting several thousand visitors. It has grown over the last 10 years, and last year we moved to accommodate our growing numbers. This year we are hosting a Festival and this means additional work, expense and effort to create this new vision. To mark the 10th year and also the 50th anniversary of the first Pride March in New York, we are hosting a week-long festival, the activities during the week of the event.
We would like to make the event more inclusive to everyone, and this includes a Family/Health Zone, a special quiet space and facilities for people with additional needs. This year we have also rebranded our organisation and refreshed our sponsorship and fundraising strategies and packages to fund this growth from a one-day event to a festival. The Festival also gives the whole community a chance to join
What we'll deliver
- A LGBT+ Festival
- Week-long activities for everyone
- A wider community inclusion -
- A family/Health area
- Increase volunteer Participation
- Host music acts, with local, and regional.
Why it's a great idea
Sunderland Pride is a free event, it is a celebration of LGBT+ life and culture, and through it, we celebrate the diversity our city offers. The Festival will also encourage increase community cohesion, by welcoming everyone, from all walks of life, young or old.
This year is to remember how far we have come, since the riots and first Pride event 50 years ago, but to educate people, we still have far to go,
Steps to get it done
- Work with Sunderland Advisory Group for planning
- Design and deliver packages for sponsors
- Deliver activities during the run up to the Main event
- Deliver Festival
The festival also provides an economic boost to the shops, pubs and cafes in the local area, while the event is on.
