Hertfordshire Pride is back - when and where is it, what to expect

Hertfordshire Pride first began in 2013. This year marks the seventh event with the support of sponsorships by groups including Watford Community Housing, Hertfordshire County Council and Three Rivers District Council.

The inclusive LGBTQ+ event will be one of more than 100 community prides that takes place throughout the year in the UK.

When and where will it take place?

The event will run on Saturday, August 31, from 12pm to 10pm.

It will take place at Cassiobury Park.

Paul Richmond, Watford Community Housing; Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor; Sara Bedford, Leader of Three Rivers District Council; Clive Duffey; Tyson Martin, Herts Pride Founder. Photo: Simon Jacobs

What can I expect?

Special headliners include Rozalla, known for her hit singles Faith and Everybody’s Free, and X Factor series 12 contestant Seann Miley Moore.

Local acts include North Herts FM radio host Mel Switters, extravagant dog shows and 20 acts inside a big top circus tent.

There will also be a market stalls, a food area and a health and wellbeing marque sponsored by Hertfordshire County Council providing information or advice from several organisations.

What organisers and supporters said

Chair of Hertfordshire Pride Society, Tyson Martin: “I am really excited about this year’s Herts Pride and its return to Watford.

“I am proud of our achievements in establishing an annual event where everyone is welcome to come and celebrate Hertfordshire’s fabulous LGBTQ+ community.

“However, we must not forget that within the UK and throughout the world, LGBTQ+ people still experience violence, harassment and discrimination – even in 2019 the death penalty is still enforced by several countries.

“Herts Pride is about celebrating diversity and inclusion taking pride in who we are as a community and challenging prejudices and ending discrimination."

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor said: “One of the fantastic things about Watford is the diversity of our town.

“We’ve got people from all parts of the world, of all faiths and of all sexualities. It has been good to work with the organisers to bring back Herts Pride to Watford and Cassiobury Park so we can celebrate that diversity.

“Sadly, we live in a world where many people are persecuted or attacked because of who they love.

“It is so important that we stand up for our values and make it clear that we think it is a good thing that people can be honest and open about who they are and living happy and fulfilling lives.”

Other festivities include community acts such as North Herts FM radio host Mel Switters, drag artiste Aaron Johns also known as Vicki Vivacious, extravagant dog shows and 20 acts inside a big top circus tent.

I'm interested. How do I buy tickets?

Wristbands are available now at www.hertspride.co.uk