First Kelham Pride takes place
It was Kelham Island & Neepsend's first ever Pride event
Last updated 2nd Jun 2024
June 1st marked the start of Pride Month - but it also marked the start of what could be a new institution in the South Yorkshire calendar, as thousands of people came to Kelham Island to celebrate the first ever Kelham Pride.
From the very start, the day was soaked with sunshine as it started with the Pride parade - seeing hundreds march through the streets of Kelham before descending on Burton Road - where there was a street party and a host of free-to-attend events - all to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
It's been a number of years since a Pride event was held in the city, and back in 2023, it was confirmed by Pride in Sheffield that they wouldn't be hosting any official event - whilst it was in fact 2019 when the city took its turn to wave its flag to raise awareness and celebrate those who identify as LGBTQ+.
The 2024 event, which was free for everybody to attend, hoped to do just that - celebrate and bring together the whole community and their allies - thanks to the work of the Kelham Island & Neepsend Community Allaince.
Their aim is to promote social inclusion, and build a great and welcoming neighbourhood in and around the region.
Following the parade, the inclusive street party centred around a main stage and a number of venues hosting musicians, DJs, drag queens, comedians, in what organisers said was an event open to the whole family.
It was a celebration of colour, and - as the organisers said - gave everyone the chance to 'strut your stuff', whilst being entertained by compares Bipolar Abdul and King Confuza, alongside acts including Lady Gaga tribute 'Haus of Gaga', local folk legends Cobalt Tales and 'Steel City Powerhouse' Ivy Alexxander.
Read more: Pride Month 2024: A look back into our history