Mullingar makes history with first Pride Parade

Mullingar made history at the weekend following the first ever Pride parade and festival in the town.

On Saturday afternoon, people gathered in their rainbow colours to march together in celebration. They continued on to enjoy a day of Pride concerts and performances at Belvedere House and Gardens that afternoon and evening.

Together, they showcased a inclusive and diverse side of Mullingar town.

There was a wonderful sense of acceptance and community during the celebrations and chairperson of Mullingar Pride, Daniel Boyne, said he was emotional during it.

He said: “We couldn’t have asked for a better reception. The parade was an emotional one for us and was a moment we will never forget.”

Ruth Illingworth, grand marshal for the parade, said as the parade finished in bright sunshine at Blackhall: “I wish the people of Mullingar a very happy Pride. This has been a beautiful day and a very historic day for Mullingar, the towns first ever LGBTQ+ Pride parade.

“We’ve had a great turnout and good weather and it’s a great tribute to Daniel, whose idea this was. He got in contact with me back in September and said what he wanted to do and he got it done.

“We’ve had a great week and it’s been great to see the Pride flag raised high at the county buildings.

“Thanks to An Garda Síochána for all their support, it’s been great and thank you to all the people who have attended today to march and to support us.

“It’s a great day for Mullingar.”