Some Unexpected Pride

[Leah87]

Had to drive into the city on Saturday to buy a few bits and sort out some stuff. It's not a bad city to visit but it never fills me with any real joy. However, I discovered that it was the day of the Chelmsford Pride Festival 2024.

Having sorted out my jobs and having a few spare hours on my hands, I thought I'd hang around to watch the parade through the high street. I ended up following it to Chelmsford Central Park to see the side shows, music, entertainers, street food stalls etc.

Never been to a Pride parade or festival before, but I have to say that it transformed the whole vibe of the city from a hum-drum functional place where people just do their business and go home into a place where people were happy, smiling, friendly, chatting to each each other and generally enjoying life.

If this is the effect that Pride festivals can have on a city, then bring them on! Had a brilliant time!

[alwayshave]

Leah, I have been to the Pride parade in Washington DC many times. It is a great affair. Though in the last few years has gotten rather corporate. Still, the people are great. I'm glad you had the chance to join in.

[Tracy Irving]

It doesn?t need to be a pride festival to generate positive results for a city. I have seen motorcycle parades and festivals that entertain the masses. Where I live, we have, what is claimed to be, the world?s largest music festival, among a slew of other lesser festivals throughout the summer. Basically, any excuse to drink and socialize will work.