Perth has turned into a sea of colour and celebration as PRIDEFEST returns to the CBD, with more than 90 events planned across the city to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community.
The festival, which began officially on November 8, will run through to December 3 and will feature a mix of major street celebrations, outdoor entertainment, film screenings and community events under this years theme of Side by Side — Every Identity. One Community.
Presented by Pride WA, the festival will once again receive backing from the City of Perth, which has supported the festival for 28 years and will host several of its major events.
The iconic Pride Parade will then take over the streets of Northbridge of Saturday, November 28, with thousands expected to attend before the celebrations continue at Russell Square for the PRIDEFEST Parade After Party.
Northbridge Piazza will host a program of queer cinema, including free outdoor movie singalongs as part of Camp Classics Under the Stars.
City of Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said PRIDEFEST was an important opportunity to celebrate the people and communities that make Perth a diverse and welcoming place to live, work and visit.
“PRIDEFEST brings people together to celebrate identity, champion inclusion and recognise the contribution of our LGBTQIA+ community to the life and character of our city,” Mr Reynolds said.
“The city is proud to have supported PRIDEFEST for 28 years and to once again host its major events.
“We want everyone to feel welcome in Perth and have the opportunity to come together, celebrate and be part of something special.”
Pride WA chair Peter Foster said the festival was about bringing people together and creating a community where everyone felt they belonged.
“PRIDEFEST is about bringing our community together, creating spaces where people can connect, celebrate and know that they belong,” Mr Foster said.
“This year’s theme, Side by Side – Every Identity. One Community, reminds us that while our stories and experiences may be different, we are stronger when we stand together.
“Pride is about visibility and celebration, but it is also about continuing the work towards a community where every identity has a place and every voice matters.”
The City of Perth Library will host two events exploring the history and experiences of Perth’s LGBTQIA+ community.
Researchers from WestPride Archives will also present Being Game — What’s History Got to Do with the Gay Games? on November 22, exploring the early history of the Gay Olympics in Perth.
For the full PRIDEFEST program visit PrideWA’s website.
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