THEGAYUK

Tag: Pride

The latest news from LGBT/ gay prides around the UK.

  • Top 10 Things You Need To Survive Pride: The Pride Survival Kit

    Top 10 Things You Need To Survive Pride: The Pride Survival Kit

    Pride season is upon us once again. Here’s a list of 13 essential items to help you to have a safe and enjoyable pride.

    Pop these items in your man-bag and call it: The Pride Survival Kit.

     

    1. Pride Map / Guide –

    Most offer Pride organisers offer a Pride map and guide, whether it be printed when you buy tickets or on their website online. Pop a copy in your Survival Kit and you’ll never be lost in the world of Pride or miss any of the big events. Did you know that TheGayUK has an App that you find directions to your nearest Pride. Visit: www.app.thegayuk.com

    2. Mobile / Smart Phone –

    These are great to keep in contact with your friends, partner or significant others at Pride. But should something go horribly wrong, in an emergency you can dial 999 and ask for the Police, an Ambulance or Fire and Rescue Services to attend.

    3. Emergency Mobile / Smart Phone Charger –

    Your mobile’s no good if the battery has gone flat, so carry an Emergency Mobile Phone Charger. There are a variety of these devices on the market and they all have different features, such as: solar panel charging, disposable – one use only, super fast charging, etc.

    4. A 24-Hour Supply of Any Medication You Take–

    Your transport home might be delayed or you might not get home at all. Take a 24-hour supply of any medication you take, so that you don’t miss a dose.

    If you’re planning to have a drink of the alcoholic variety, check beforehand that it’s OK to mix your medication with alcohol. If you’re unsure speak to your GP or prescribing health care professional who will be able to tell you.

    5. Painkillers –

    There’s nothing worse than being in pain to spoil your Pride mood. Take some painkillers and avoid being the member of the group who’s not in the mood because of pain.

    6. Emergency Money –

    It’s always good to be prepared for the unexpected. Emergency money will cover costs because of an unexpected event at Pride. How much emergency money you put to one side is up to you and depends up on your circumstances.

    7. Sun Protection Lotion –

    In the UK we have ever-changing weather; it can be pouring down with rain one minute and the next the sun is cracking flags. Taking sun protection will stop you burning and protect against potential UV damage when the sun comes out at Pride.

    8. Condoms & Lube –

    At Pride you may meet someone and hook up with them. Whether or not you’re planning to hook up, take condoms and lube. Then if something happens you wont have to worry about the unprotected sex the morning after.

    Some pubs and clubs do provide safer sex packs, but don’t rely on these. The pub may have stopped providing them since the last time you were there, or there may have been a rush and are out of stock.

    Condoms & lube are provided free at your local sexual health clinic. If you are worried because you’ve had unprotected sex, the sexual health clinic can also undertake testing and offer support. For more information visit The Gay UK Sexual Health Site.

    9. Bottle of Water –

    Staying well hydrated will protect against sunstroke (along with sun protection lotion) and will also lessen or prevent alcohol-related hangovers.

    10. Safety Clips & A Spare Pair of Pants –

    If you’re in the Pride Parade safety clips are essential, as costumes don’t always stay together. Even if you’re not taking part in the Pride Parade safety clips are still useful to have.

    We’ve all had wardrobe malfunctions at the most inconvenient of times and a safety clip or a spare pair of pants can prevent that ground-open-up-and-swallow-me-now moment.

    11. Alcohol Hand Rub –

    Toilets, especially outdoor ones soon become unclean. Alcohol hand rub used after a visit to the toilet will keep your hands hygienic.

    12. Lollipops / Sweets / Other Snacks –

    Keeping your sugar-levels up with lollipops, sweets and other snacks will provide your body with plenty of energy. This will mean that you can enjoy Pride to the fullest.

    13. Ear Plugs –

    These are great if the music gets too much. They also prevent your ears from ringing or buzzing the day after Pride.

    Pride is a celebratory event where we come together to celebrate our sexuality as part of who we are. Gay people throw a great party, but there’s always a potential for things to go wrong. The Pride Survival Kit if carried in full or part is likely to reduce the risk of something going wrong for you. We hope that you have a safe and truly fantastic Pride.

     

  • EDINBURGH | Just over a week until Pride Scotia

    TheGayUK is happy to annouce that in just over a week Pride Scotia, Edinburgh’s very own pride parade will take to the streets.

    The march will assemble outside Scottish Parliament from 11:30 – and will move promptly at noon on the 15th June 2013

    The march route will be High Street, crossing in portions at North Bridge.

    A pause outside the City Chambers for speeches. March resumes along George IV Bridge to Bristo Square.

    TheGayUK is a proud media sponsor of Pride Scotia – we’ll be bringing you news about Pride events in Edinburgh during the forthcoming week.

  • One week till Oxford Pride

    A week full of activities to celebrate Oxford Pride will commence from today as Oxford gears up for its 11th Pride

    A fantastic turn out at Oxford Pride’s launch party last night means that the festivities are well underway for what is hoped will be the best Oxford Pride ever.

    There are activities all week in Oxford leading up to the main Parade and Pride event this forthcoming weekend.

    Here’s some of what’s coming up:

    Saturday 1st June

    14:00-16:00 Queer Oxford: Walk on the Wilde Side

    Meeting at Magdalen Bridge. How well do you know the LGBT past in Oxford? Join a casual stroll around Oxford as we explore 600 years in this ‘City of Romance’.

    Sunday 2nd June

    12:00-16:00 Rainbow Families LGBT Picnic

    At Bury Knowle Park Headington – Enjoy an afternoon of fun & games for LGBT families of all shapes & sizes! Look for the rainbow flags.

    17:00-18:00 Pride Dog Show

    At The Jolly Farmers, Paradise Street OX1 1LD – Prizes for Best Trick, Look-a-like, Cutest, Butchest, and more! Donations to Pride.

    19:30-21:00 First Sunday: Labyrinth and Communion

    At St Columba’s United Reformed Church, Alfred Street, Oxford, OX1 4EH A modern take on an ancient meditation practice. A spiritual journey into our self, toward the pine, and back out to the modern world.

    Monday 3rd June

    06:30-07:30 Free Fitness for Pride

    At All Saints Church Hall, New High Street, OX3 7AL – Free Trial of the Fitness and Fat Loss Bootcamp. It’s a 1-hour wake-up workout on Mon, Wed & Fri.

    08:00-16:00 Be Beautifully Strong

    Consultation, Gym Induction & Takeaway Program for Women: Leave your boring workouts behind you … come and be inspired! Bookings essential for your £10 session

    19:00-21:00 The Oxford LGBT Book Club

    Meeting at The Chequers, High Street OX1 4DH – Reading Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

    20:30-23:00 The Pride Quiz

    At The Jolly Farmers OX1 1LD – A fun night with Cash Prizes – Groups of 2-6 people, £2 per person – Free Buffet

    Tuesday 4th June

    20:00-21:30 Lesbian History Group: The notorious Eliza Robertson

    At The Castle Tavern (Downstairs). Talk on how an 18th century Blackheath schoolteacher became notorious for swindling her partner and her neighbours. All women welcome.

    20:00-23:00 Wine & Wisdom

    At The Castle Tavern, Paradise Street OX1 1LD – Join Rob for a unique Cheese, Wine & Quiz night.

    22:00-03:00 Poptarts

    At Baby Love Bar, Kind Edward Street OX1 4HS – Oxford’s longest running LGBT night where town and gown meet in style

     

    Wednesday 5th June

    06:30-07:30 Free Fitness for Pride

    At All Saints Church Hall, New High Street, OX3 7AL – Free Trial of the Fitness and Fat Loss Bootcamp. It’s a 1-hour wake-up workout on Mon, Wed & Fri.

    17:30-19:00 The University of Oxford LGBT Staff Group and Equality and persity Unit: Pride Panel Debate

    At the University Natural History Museum, OX1 3PW – A panel discussion on LGBT issues, how far we’ve come and how we’re still “not there yet”. All welcome

    Thursday 6th June

    From 18:00 Oxford Area LGBT University Staff Social Group: 1st Thursday Drinks

    At The University Club, 11 Mansfield Road OX1 3SZ – This casual monthly after works drinks gathering is an opportunity to meet new people or catch up with friends in a relaxed friendly atmosphere. We will have a rainbow flag on the table to help newcomers find us. All are welcome.

    18:00-21:00 Pride Curry Night

    At The Jolly Farmers, OX1 1LD Come along to an all-you-can-eat curry night for just £6.99. All profits going to Oxford Pride.

    20:00-23:00 Karaoke

    At The Castle Tavern, Paradise Street OX1 1LD – Share your vocal skills for a fun filled evening with Donations to Oxford Pride.

    22:00-23:00 Lashings of Ginger Beer Time presents Fanny Whittington: A Queer Sort of Pantomime

    At the Old Fire Station, 40 George Street, OX1 2AQ – £8 full/ £6 cons. Young orphan Fanny Whittington sets off to London… but whatever the streets are paved with, it’s definitely not gold. Can Fanny save her pet rat Basil from mortal peril (BOO!), win the love interest of her dreams (AWWW!) and avoid becoming the world’s most unpaid intern? Find out in this anarchic LGBTQ+ pantomime! Show 8pm Friday & Saturday too!

     

    Friday 7th June

    06:30-07:30 Free Fitness for Pride

    At All Saints Church Hall, New High Street, OX3 7AL – Free Trial of the Fitness and Fat Loss Bootcamp. It’s a 1-hour wake-up workout on Mon, Wed & Fri.

     

    Saturday 8th June

    12:00-13:00 Pride Parade

    City Centre Starts at Cornmarket & Ship Streets.

    12:00-20:00 Pride Event

    Oxpens Field Next to the Ice Rink, OX1 1RQ

    20:00- late Pride After Parties

    Castle Tavern, Jolly Farmers & Plush Lounge

     

    NOT THERE YET

    Oxford Pride’s theme for Pride 2013 is “Not There Yet”, examining that whilst we have come a long way in recent years in terms of LGBT rights, we still have a way to go to achieve full equality.

    Globally, there are over seventy countries that outlaw homosexuality, and far more where same-sex marriages are not permitted, whether labelled as ‘marriage’ or otherwise. Despite the fact that homosexuality is punishable by the death penalty in Uganda, LGBT Ugandans held their first Pride

    Parade last year with nearly a hundred risking their lives and turning ut for the festivities.

     

    Whilst we in the UK don’t have to fear legal repercussions for our orientation or gender identities like many in other countries do, we still have a way to go to achieve full equality, and the ability to live free from discrimination.

    OXFORD PRIDE is a 10-day arts and cultural festival from Friday 31 May to Sunday 9 June. You are invited to join in the celebration of lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer life in Oxfordshire.

    For more information visit: http://www.oxford-pride.org.uk

  • PRIDE | Oxford Pride kicks off Pride Week

    Oxford Pride is readying to kick off its Pride week with its launch on the 31st May.

    The Pride which celebrates its tenth year, is kicking off its Pride week with a launch party at the Boiler Room Gallery, Jam Factory, 27 Park End Street OX1 1HU – Featuring speeches & entertainment including an interactive performance by Stavroula Kounadea

    Then later on there is the after party at The Plush Lounge, 27 Park End Street OX1 1HU – Sponsored by Plush. Open to the public from 10.00pm to late.

    In March 2013 Oxford Pride received registered charity status.

    NOT THERE YET

    Oxford Pride’s theme for Pride 2013 is “Not There Yet”, examining that whilst we have come a long way in recent years in terms of LGBT rights, we still have a way to go to achieve full equality.

    Globally, there are over seventy countries that outlaw homosexuality, and far more where same-sex marriages are not permitted, whether labelled as ‘marriage’ or otherwise. Despite the fact that homosexuality is punishable by the death penalty in Uganda, LGBT Ugandans held their first Pride

    Parade last year with nearly a hundred risking their lives and turning ut for the festivities.

    Whilst we in the UK don’t have to fear legal repercussions for our orientation or gender identities like many in other countries do, we still have a way to go to achieve full equality, and the ability to live free from discrimination.

    OXFORD PRIDE is a 10-day arts and cultural festival from Friday 31 May to Sunday 9 June. You are invited to join in the celebration of lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer life in Oxfordshire.

  • Cover charge lifted at Soho’s Manbar

    Today, the City of Westminster Council has lifted the mandatory minimum admission fee that Manbar inherited when it took over the premises licence.

    Manbar is now open until late every day and is FREE entry on the door. This free admission includes weekends.

    London’s gay scene and visitors now have a Central London gay bar with extended hours they can go to without ever having to pay an entry fee.

    Gay owned and run, Manbar offers the gay scene a mature gay bar where customers can socialise and drink until the early hours of the morning. Aside from no cover charge, Manbar continues to offer customers a free coat-check room and free wifi internet usage.

    Owner Charles Hill had this to say: “From when we took over the licence, we decided Soho needed a bar where the gay scene can catch up with mates, make new friends, listen to good music and not be ripped off paying for extras. It is excellent news the City of Westminster Council has lifted the cover charge requirement we inherited when we took over the venue. Now all our customers can come in for free until 2am during the week and 3am on weekends.”

    Since opening its doors on the 1st November 2012, thousands have enjoyed Manbar. Already the bar is famous for it’s sexy wall murals which includes the now famous portrait of Prince Harry as featured in Time Out, Evening Standard, Boyz, Qx and Grazia to name a few publications.

    Please note Manbar is not associated with the Man Bar once opened in Borough a few years back nor is it owned by the former site licensee 79CXR.

    Opening hours for Manbar are Monday to Wednesday from 4pm until 2am; Thursday and Friday from 4pm until 3am; Saturdays from 2pm until 3am and Sundays from 2pm until 11pm. Free Entry always.

  • COMMENT: Pride, Who Cares?

    This weekend is possibly one of the busiest on the Pride circuit for 2012, and warm ‘Pride’ greetings to you all in Brighton, Grimsby, Cardiff, Barnsley and here in Leicester.

    Once again members of the LGBT community will be celebrating their sexuality in public, and cities and towns enjoying the diversity that the LGBT community gives to each of their respective locations; and this is truly wonderful and great, and reflects the time and open society which we in the UK live.

    I wonder though, how many of the revelers will spare a thought for those in other parts of the world where ‘Pride’ is not a party, where sometimes it is a struggle or a fight against oppression or criminalisation; where being gay doesn’t mean a drunken party in a park, but means imprisonment or possibly stoning or death, purely because they love someone of the same sex? Sadly I suspect very few of us celebrating this weekend will even give this a second thought; if we see a stall in the ‘marketplace’ we will probably walk by and ignore it, after all £3 for a bottle of WDK is much better value than the same amount could do for our persecuted bothers and sisters across the world.

    Looking through the programmes for several of the events this weekend their seems to be little or no sign of any campaigning or political speakers or messages which focus on campaigning for our rights whether it be marriage equality here in the UK or more general gay rights and freedoms elsewhere in the world.

    We will be quite happy being fed the normal diet of gay ‘culture’ the jaded drag queen we have all seen a thousand times before; the second rate X Factor rejects; the D list celebrities who ‘troll’ theirway round the pride circuit trying to revive their sagging careers. Where now is the campaigning spirit and fight that once pride were about; we now have parades rather than marches; we don’t even mention ‘gay or LGBT’ in our event titles now (of the 4 events this Saturday none mention LGBT or Gay); do we really believe that ‘Pride’ is now a brand so strong that we don’t need to call it gay, or has Pride just become an excuse for a piss up on a park, devoid from spirit, fight and conscience?

    In the UK, having gained freedoms and rights over the last 45 years, which older members of the LGBT community could never have imagined in their wildest dreams back in the 1950s we seem to have sat back and said thank you very much and now believe we ‘have it all’ We don’t, and neither do other parts of the world.

    So perhaps, as we walk proudly on our pride parades to bemusement or applause from the city shoppers we pass by, and watch the same mediocre acts on our stages across the country, we might just think about what we have, how we got there, what we need to do to retain these rights and to gain the same freedoms for our brothers and sisters across the globe.
    Visit the campaigning stalls on the park, sign their petitions, put some money into their collecting tins; remember we are as a community much more diverse than the fare we are served up at pride events, and if you don’t see any of these campaigning organisations or hear a speaker asking for your support for LGBT campaigns start asking some difficult questions of your local pride organisers ( who do a tremendous job for nothing) but who maybe don’t feel that we have any campaigning concerns or issues any more, or event better start something in your area yourself.
    Most of all, have a great pride wherever you are; be safe and look after each other, be proud but remember those less fortunate than us!

    James Coltham is: Sane, sorted professional, left-leaning, community activist and campaigner. Based in Leicestershire, interested in politics, art, music,s inging countryside and LGBT issues

    Opinions expressed in this article may not reflect those of THEGAYUK, its management or editorial teams. If you’d like to comment or write a comment, opinion or blog piece, please click here.