Bristol Pride Parade & Pride Day called off, festival to go ahead

Bristol Pride Parade & Pride Day called off, festival to go ahead

Posted on: 17 Jun 2021

Pride 2021 plans have been derailed by the government's delay to their 'roadmap' plan.

 

The 2021 Bristol Pride programme has been partially cancelled, organisers have confirmed, with both the Pride Parade and Pride Day celebrations officially called off.

 

Releasing the news today (Thursday 17 June), the Pride team explained that, due to the fact both events were due to take place on 10 July, neither can now go ahead under the government's updated 'roadmap' timeline.

 

The statement added that there is still an extensive programme of events going ahead next month, from talks and workshops to live music, comedy and more. Head to the Bristol Pride website to find out more.

 

 

Speaking on the news of the partial cancellation, Bristol Pride Festival Director, Eve Russell, said:

 

“We’re so sad to announce that we have taken the decision to postpone the Parade March and our planned Pride Day Gathering on 10th July, at such short notice. 

 

“Following the government announcement to delay the roadmap, we have met with Public Health, Bristol City Council and Avon & Somerset Police to discuss the feasibility of all parts of these events.

 

“We had robustly planned all our events to ensure they could go ahead had the rules not been relaxed, but sadly COVID-19 cases are rising significantly in Bristol, particularly among young people, and it just won’t be possible to deliver the day in a way that is safe at this time.  

 

“This is heartbreaking for our team who have spent the past 10 months planning a safe programme of events and of course, most importantly, for the LGBT+ communities which are the heart of Bristol Pride.

 

“We know how much they have been looking forward to coming together and celebrating after the long period of isolation the pandemic has forced upon us.”

 

Russell went on to confirm that the team are still working hard alongside Bristol City Council to explore potential new dates for the Pride Parade and Pride Day, but will continue to prioritise health and safety at all times.

 

For more information on Bristol Pride, to find out more about their support work or to follow news and updates in the coming weeks, head to their website or find the team on Twitter.

 

Main Image: Dan Regan

Article by:

Matt Robson

 

Editor - 365Bristol.com & LOUD Magazine
 

Matt is a Journalism graduate and writer, passionate about supporting Bristol music, art and independent business. Get in touch via email at matt@365bristol.com.