Manchester Pride Festival unveils line up for Family Pride 2023

Manchester Pride Festival has unveiled the line up for Family Pride 2023.

The star-studded line-up includes performer Ginny Lemon, a known face of the Manchester Pride Festival, and Lady Bushra, shortlisted for the 2021 BBC New Comedy Awards.

Guinness World Records Holder Symoné and Cyro from The Enby Show are also set to grace the stage which will be hosted by Fatt Butcher and Blu Romantic.

Family Pride MCR promises to ‘encapsulate the essence of unity, empowerment, and positive change within the community’ - offering an ‘exciting day filled with festive parties, engaging play areas, and awe-inspiring performances, tailored to resonate with LGBTQ+ families, parents/carers, and children alike.’

Mark Fletcher, CEO of Manchester Pride, said: “Pride celebrations are for everyone and should not be bound by age or family structure. Our celebrations at Family Pride MCR provide a fun, enriching and empowering space where families of all kinds can express themselves freely.

“Family Pride MCR offers vital representation and visibility to families that don’t always see themselves reflected in heteronormative society, and we’re proud to offer children and families a friendly space to meet, connect and celebrate pride in a way that’s designed just for them.”

Attendees can look forward to an energetic mix of music, crafting, party games, sing-a-longs, and a rainbow disco, showcasing performances and artists that champion love, self-expression, and individuality.

Among the highlights is the return of the Fatt Project’s Palaver Party, a stellar performance party conceived for children and their guardians. This attraction offers an enchanting blend of cabaret, performances, creative workshops, fabulous discos, and of course, a mini-pride parade.

Director of Fatt Projects, Adam Carver expressed their excitement: “We are so excited to be back working with Manchester Pride this year to present a second fabulous Family Pride MCR.

“Fatt Project’s work for families is all about celebrating yourself, having a great time, and bringing the whole family together for an unforgettable party. It feels more important now than ever to ensure that children and families are a key part of pride celebrations, so we can let young people know that all kinds of families are loved, celebrated, and part of our community.

“We can’t wait to see everyone there; so get your dancing shoes out, stick on a sequin or ten, and come join us for a fantastic day”.

Travel company TUI is showing its support for Family Pride MCR by offering a beach-inspired experience. Festival-goers can enjoy the holiday vibes, featuring Captain T from TUI’s kid’s clubs, and spaces for families to unwind.

Toby Horry, Head of Brand Marketing at TUI, said: “We’re so excited to be getting involved in the Manchester Pride Festival and sponsoring Family Pride MCR this year, since it’s such a hugely important date for our community up in the north.

“We can’t wait to celebrate our colleagues and show Manchester how much TUI values all their LGBTQ+ staff and crew.”

Proud 2 b Parents will host an information stall, an LGBTQ+ children’s book stall, and guide families to various activities on site. They also offer a parade viewing area for LGBTQ+ families to enjoy the parade from a welcoming vantage point overlooking Deansgate.

Other activities available for children include baby sensory, baby noise making workshop and story time in Book Nook Library.

The Great Northern Warehouse will host indoor extended play space in the Atrium with lawn games, table tennis and a colouring. There will also be a quiet zone, feeding area, pram park and changing facilities.

This free event will be held on Saturday, August 26 from midday to 6pm, promising an inclusive environment for all.