Shout it from the high street , Newry Pride returns on Saturday 22 August, bringing a colourful parade, live music and family-friendly fun to Marcus Square and beyond; here’s what’s planned, how to join in, and quick tips to make the most of Pride week in the city.

Essential Takeaways

  • When and where: Newry Pride takes place on Saturday 22 August, with the parade leaving Newry Leisure Centre at 1pm and finishing in Marcus Square.
  • Headliners and acts: Expect drag, cabaret and live music from Blu Hydrangea, George Heuston, Susi Pagel and local rock band Ashgrove.
  • Family-friendly fun: Crafts, circus acts and face painters will be on site, along with information stalls from LGBTQ+ organisations.
  • Week-long events: Build-up includes a Pride Movie Night, a literature evening, a Park Run for Pride and an important Bill of Rights discussion.
  • Afterparty and fringe events: Afterparty at The Whistlin’ Donkey features drag kings and queens and burlesque; other venues around town host live bands and bingo.

Parade first, party later , the route and the feel

The parade sets off from Newry Leisure Centre at 1pm, heads down Monaghan Street, along Merchants Quay and loops around Sugar Island before arriving at Marcus Square for the main party. Picture a bright procession, colourful banners and the noise of cheering locals and visitors , it’s a proper community moment. Organisers want the event to be accessible and welcoming, so arrive early if you want a spot close to the route or the stage.

Local businesses tend to line the route and there’s always a buzzy, friendly atmosphere. If you’re marshaling or joining a group, check in with LGBTQ+ Women’s Group Newry for assembly points and timings, and wear comfortable shoes , the walk is short but standing around can make the day long.

The line-up: drag, rock and something for everyone

The post-parade party will feature headline performances from Blu Hydrangea, George Heuston and Susi Pagel, plus Newry’s own rising rock outfit Ashgrove. Expect high-energy drag sets, cheeky humour and a few singalongs. According to event listings, the entertainment schedule also spills into local venues, so you can round off the day with more intimate gigs and shows.

If you’re coming for the music, plan where you want to be early , Marcus Square is the main stage, but satellite gigs at places like The Bookshelf and Joe Magees give you alternative vibes. For families and quieter visitors, look out for scheduled slots for kids’ activities so you can dodge the loudest sets.

Family-friendly and educational , Pride more than a party

Newry Pride keeps families in mind, with craft corners, circus workshops and face painting on the agenda. There’ll also be stalls from local LGBTQ+ organisations offering advice and information, which makes the event useful as well as entertaining. It’s a good day for kids to see a visible celebration of diversity while enjoying gentle, playful activities.

If you want to make it educational, slot in the Ballybot House discussion on the Bill of Rights the week before , it’s a chance to hear local voices on policy and rights, and to have a real conversation about what Pride means beyond performance.

Pride Week highlights , events to pop in your diary

The week running up to the march includes a Pride Movie Night screening of Priscilla Queen of the Desert on 12 August, a Literature Night at Finegan & Sons on 14 August, and a Park Run for Pride at Newry Greenway on 15 August. Community-run events like these create momentum and give people chances to connect in smaller, more relaxed settings.

Organisers have also called for volunteers and helpers to join the planning team, so if you want a hands-on role in future editions it’s worth reaching out. Smaller events around town, including fundraisers and fringe shows, are great ways to support queer spaces and artists.

Afterparty, fringe gigs and how to plan your day

When Marcus Square winds down, the afterparty at The Whistlin’ Donkey promises cabaret, drag and burlesque , a more adult affair for those keeping the night going. Meanwhile, other venues host live bands and quirky shows like Miss Auntie Marie’s Brutal Bingo, so you can tailor your evening whether you want late-night glitz or a relaxed pub gig.

Practical tips: bring water, a small pack-up, and sun protection or a light raincoat depending on the forecast. Charge your phone before you arrive, agree on a meeting point with friends, and check the official guidebook for accessibility details and timings.

It’s a small change that can make every Pride moment feel safer and more joyful.

Source Reference Map

Story idea inspired by: [1]

Sources by paragraph: