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Irish Independent

Wexford's Pride in the Park returns to celebrate ‘beautiful diversity' in family-friendly community event

Now in its fifth year, Wexford's Pride in the Park returns to Min Ryan Park on Saturday, May 31, from 12pm to 6pm. Organised by Wexford Pride, the event is a vibrant annual celebration that brings together the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies in a celebration of inclusion, solidarity, and queer joy. The free, family-friendly neuro-inclusive event will feature a diverse line-up of LGBTQIA+ musicians and acts with performances from both emerging and established local talent including 12 Gauge Outrage, Bloco Garman, Ovalords, Mz Red Dear, Andrei Boyd, Lilli Dobbs, Johnny O'Brien and the Wexford Pride Queer Chorus. Further acts are also set to be announced. A Wexford Pride spokesperson said: 'In addition to music, attendees will be able to explore an array of community vendors, food trucks, and community organisations fighting to create the world a more equal place for all. There will be something for everyone – whether you're there to support a cause, enjoy the atmosphere, or connect with others!' To round off the day's celebrations the Wexford Pride in The Park After-Party will be hosted by Wexford Arts Centre, with festivities led by Poppy DeScrace and The Disgraceful Cabaret. Disgraceful Cabaret is a Queer & Neurodivergent run show striving for inclusively & silliness. Expect Pride themed & Cosplay acts from King's, Queens, Things & Burlesquers: Poppy De Scrace, RICHARD Joke, Asher B Grant, Mx Teaze, Chronic QT & more, with prizes for best dressed on the night! Tickets can be purchased via Wexford Arts Centre, be sure to book early to avoid disappointment. 'Pride in the Park is a positive, affirming celebration of our beautiful diversity! There will always be people who think we shouldn't exist, and this is our chance to ignore all of that and just focus on love and inclusivity,' said Veronica Victor. Over the past five years, LGBTQIA+ spaces in Wexford have grown through the continued voluntary efforts of both the community and its allies — carving out welcoming, affirming spaces that support LGBTQIA+ people at all stages of their journey. These spaces are vital, especially in rural areas, where access to support and visibility is often limited. Pride in the Park is more than a celebration, it's a moment to connect, reflect, and honour the legacy of our communities' struggle for social equality. Each year Pride in The Park brings together community organisations united in working to create a more equal society for all and this year is no different. In recent weeks Wexford Pride has spoken out against intolerance, amid growing transphobia in the UK, US and abroad, and in favour of an Ireland that embraces diversity and defends every person's right to live a free and authentic life regardless of their race, gender or backgrounds. 'We're living at a time that is growing increasingly hostile to difference – where marginalised communities are often met with exclusion and hate in response to the inequalities we face in a changing world, said PRO Rían Browne. 'It's vital we act to make it clear to decision makers that this bigotry is not welcome here and does not reflect the views of a majority of Irish society. Through our work, we know what can be achieved when we come together to embrace inclusion, diversity, and belonging.' Pride in The Park is free to attend and open to all. For event updates, opportunities to get involved or support our work visit: Tickets for Disgraceful Cabaret Pride After Party are available through