GRASSINGTON is to witness its first ever Pride in the Dales event after a group of passionate residents got together to bring a colourful and fun spectacular to the Upper Wharfedale area.

 


GRASINGTON will be filled with wall-to-wall fun and diversity as the result of many months of hard work by a band of 24 to 57-year-olds comes to fruition on its own Pride day.

Organisers have worked non stop to bring the debut event together and members say they are thrilled to present a 'landmark occasion celebrating celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and the vibrant spirit of our community'.

The group's deep connection to Grassington has fuelled members' determination to make the event on Saturday, July 29, a resounding success. Community help and support has been forthcoming and the committee has lauded the fundraising efforts and the generous support of local businesses, including Grassington-based DSMC (Diving, Survey and Marine Contracting). 

Charlie Bayston, managing director for DSMC, said: "I’m sure the event will not only be really good fun for the whole village and anyone visiting, but think celebrating equality and diversity as a community has a much bigger message and impact than people often consciously realise. Things like this and the volunteers behind them make us proud to live where we do, and just making a donation doesn’t feel like enough."

Event organisers say the event 'exemplifies the village's unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and accepting community that values every individual'.
Joel Summerscales who is chair of the Pride in the Dales committee has shared his personal journey. He said:  "Having struggled with my own sexuality for many years, I finally found the courage to 'come out' as gay when I was 29. 
"Living in the Dales, I was worried about how people would react to my news. The response I received from family, friends, neighbours and colleagues was absolutely amazing. It gave me the strength to be who I had always wanted to be."

Joel added: "Starting Pride in the Dales has been very close to my heart and I'm so proud of what we've achieved so far. I'm surrounded by an amazing team of people who have all worked tirelessly to make this event happen and I thank them all so much. 

"I hope that by creating Pride in the Dales, we will encourage anyone who may be struggling on their own journey to know that it's okay to be themselves and embrace it. Grassington is a safe, friendly and diverse village open to everyone and we look forward to warmly welcoming you."

A spokesman said: "To kick off the celebrations the group has been thrilled to collaborate with nearby schools, organising on-site workshops involving children creating banners and props for the parade. The children will have the exciting opportunity to participate in the parade alongside businesses, North Yorkshire Police, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and various community organisations and groups.

"Throughout the Saturday afternoon, a line-up of captivating performances and activities awaits attendees with bars and pubs around the village each hosting a different performer. Face painting, children's workshops, book readings and village games in the square will offer endless fun for younger participants. Additionally, there will be a movie showing for everyone to enjoy, and shops will offer an array of Pride merchandise to commemorate the event.

"To cap off the exhilarating day of celebration, an electrifying Evening Pride Party will kick off at 8 pm at Grassington Town Hall. Prepare to be dazzled as drag queens from the renowned Bar Pop in Manchester take the stage, delivering an unforgettable performance that will leave you breathless. Joining them will be the immensely talented Rhaya Sunshine, a beloved icon of Grassington, and the sensational local performer Smashby, who will enchant the audience with their captivating acts. Get ready to dance, sing, and embrace the vibrant energy that fills the air as we come together for a night of pure exhilaration and pride.

"As the excitement builds, we invite everyone to mark their calendars for this monumental Grassington Pride event for a day filled with joy, inclusivity, and memorable experiences. Let us come together as a united community, embracing equality and diversity with open hearts and open minds."

A parade from the town hall and back kicks off festivities at 12 noon, followed by all-day workshops at the town hall.
From 12.30pm there will be music, live acts, food and drinks at various venues around Grassington.

At 8pm there will be a ticketed party at the town hall featuring drag queens and local performers. Tickets must be bought in advance from the website link at: https://www.prideinthedales.co.uk/