Blog: A beginner's guide to your first Pride Parade

As an international student from Ghana, I found it incredibly exciting to attend my first-ever Pride Parade last year. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you enter Birmingham’s most vibrant and welcoming space, so you can enjoy Pride fully!

You can march with us for this year’s parade on Saturday 23 May through the registration link.

Plan your outfit

The Birmingham Pride Parade is a vibrant and welcoming space. It is all about self-expression and gaining the freedom to express yourself exactly how you want. Wear your glitter eye shadow. Wear your funky overalls. Wear your feather boa. Do not worry about sticking out. Last year, I wore my favourite pink jeans, a green long-sleeved top and sunflower earrings! Be as colourful as you would like.

Remember, the Pride Parade is a full-day event. You will likely be walking, jumping and dancing in the march, so ditch clothes that dig into your skin at all the wrong places. You want to ensure that you are wearing clothing that makes you feel comfortable.

Check the weather forecast

Pride is all about freedom, but we are still subject to the unpredictable UK weather! You should arm yourself with a hat and sunscreen in case of high temperatures and intense sunlight. On the other hand, pack a foldable umbrella in case of rain. Last year saw the full range of Birmingham weather from sun to clouds to rain. Still, we did not let the rain dampen our celebrations, and neither should you!

Pack a bag for your essentials

Pride events are generally very busy places, so you will ideally have a tote or crossbody bag that leaves your hands free. In addition to an umbrella, there are lots of essentials you might want to bring along. A fully charged phone and a portable power bank are crucial for communication and documentation purposes. You don’t want to be met with a low battery at the perfect picture opportunity! You should also carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, snack bars for walking, and a wallet with your ID and cash in case of an emergency.

Bring a friend (if you can)

While Birmingham Pride celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community, everyone is welcome to join the festivities! Invite your friends, whether they are part of the community or allies, as it is always helpful to have a familiar face. You can look out for each other to stay safe and enjoy yourselves!

Don’t worry if you are unable to bring a friend, though. Pride is full of friendly faces, all keen to say hi!

Bring your energy!

I initially found the Pride parade overwhelming due to the large number of attendees it attracts. However, my anxiety was calmed when I recognised that this is a celebration! I found myself saying hi, sharing smiles and joining sing-alongs with fellow attendees. Pride is all about community. Open yourself up to these possibilities. Allow yourself to meet people and make new friends. Join impromptu dance parties with the person next to you. Stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ people and join us in advocating for the right to live and love freely!

Fancy giving it a go? Sign up to be part of our Birmingham Pride Parade on Saturday 23 May.