Thousands take part in Exeter Pride celebrations in the city centre

Published: 13 May 2024

Around 2,000 people took part in Exeter Pride’s march through the city centre at the weekend.

Exeter Pride, a celebration of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-plus (LGBTQ+) communities, was also marked with a host of events throughout the city centre in bright sunshine.

Exeter Lord Mayor Cllr Kevin Mitchell and Council Leader Cllr Phil Bialyk were among the thousands of people who supported the event on Saturday.

The march included giant rainbow flags, Street Heat samba band, Morris dancers, roller derby and representatives from community groups and organisations.

The march ended at Northernhay Garden, where there were a big variety of stalls from local vendors, charity organisations and wellbeing groups.

Events and entertainment were also staged at Exeter Library, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Exeter Phoenix.

Cllr Bialyk said: “It was a great event with a lot of support for the march in the city centre. The weather was perfect, the atmosphere was really friendly and it a very enjoyable day.”

Local resident Alan Quick had the idea of holding a regular Pride event in the city in 2008 and it was local LGBTQ+ charity Intercom and a small group of people, including Alan, which co-ordinated the first Exeter Pride.