Thurso to host Caithness’ first ever LGBTQ+ Pride this summer in UK mainland’s most northerly event
Caithness is hoping to host its first ever LGBTQ+ Pride parade in Thurso later this year.
The annual festivities often mix a celebration of LGBTQ+ identities with raising awareness of issues the community continues to face, with elements of protest against continued inequalities and discrimination.
Pride month is in June each year, and different areas hold march processions and events throughout the summer.
The first ever Pride march took place in June 1970 in New York to mark the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, and it arrived in the UK in 1971 when London hosted its first march.
In the Highlands, the first Pride event took place in Inverness in 2018, with LGBTQ+ people and allies often travelling south from Caithness to attend.
There have previously been events taking place in Thurso, with the Lyth Arts Centre running a Pride programme in 2023 and Highland Pride hosting an event as part of their Pride roadshow in 2021, but never a parade.
Now, Thurso looks set to join those ranks, subject to approval, with stalls and entertainment also due to be on offer in the pedestrian area of the town on Saturday, June 21.
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Organisers commented: “We are really excited to be holding Stepping Out Together with Pride, the most northernly Pride event on UK mainland.
“It will be a great way to celebrate love and diversity in Caithness and surrounding areas.
“Our family friendly event will be a highlight on everyone's calendar.”