The wife and I have been going to Pride on and off for the last few years. Whenever we do go, we always have a good time. The atmosphere is always buzzing with joy, especially if the weather is good, and attendees are always in good spirits.
This year was our first year attending as a family, and we couldn’t be prouder.
I’ve been an LGBTQ+ child since the age of 10, so going to Pride with my mum(s) as an LGBTQ+ family wasn’t a new thing for me, but going with MY wife and MY son was something extra special. I know S felt the same.
The festivities began when we met another same-sex parent family from a local Rainbow Family group at the gates whilst we waited for the parade to reach the park. Their son was the same age as T so we had plenty to talk about, it was also the ladies’ first Pride! After the parade facing several delays we finally saw it and then made our way into the park.
For the second year in a row, there was a family area within the park that had a main tent, which housed children’s entertainment, and arts and crafts. There was also a small fun fair area outside that housed games likes a coconut shire. This was perfect for us (although T was a little bit too young for crafts and a face paint) as it was quiet and out of the way of the main park where all the bar and club tents were. We still walked around the park later on to view the stalls, but this is where we stayed for the majority of the day.
Our fondest memories were meeting other Rainbow Families, being able to chat with the ladies of Pride Angel, and meeting fellow bloggers (a very surreal moment!). It was a wonderful day.
After spending the afternoon with some friends and their children we decided to make our way home. Making our way through the park was probably when I felt most proud. We were surrounded by hundreds of people from all walks of life, all sharing the same belief that we are all equal, and it felt great.
I’ve never taken for granted how lucky I am that I can freely walk hand in hand with my wife, and I certainly don’t take for granted how lucky we are when we can also walk together as a family, especially when we know difficult it is for others in other countries.
This, as well as because it’s fun, is one of the many MANY reasons I will be making sure that every year we take T to Pride (with pride).
K
3 comments
This is beautiful! I’ve never been to Pride and that’s absolutely rubbish, isn’t it. I really should make an effort and take all of us next year.
That would be awesome! When booked ahead you can get some good deals on hotels, etc. Hopefully by next year the family tent will be even bigger! X
This is a lovely post! How awesome that you are continuing the tradition of taking your child to pride that your mums started with you!
I’ve not been for a few years now but it’s nice to know there’s a kids area now!
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