The Mancunian Way: A joyous weekend

Keep up to date with all the big stories from across Greater Manchester in the daily Mancunian Way newsletter. You can receive the newsletter direct to your inbox every weekday by signing up right here.

Hello,

It was a glorious weekend for those at Manchester Pride. Thousands of people turned out to watch the wonderful annual parade, which took on a ‘Queerly Beloved’ wedding theme to mark ten years of marriage equality.

Of course there was SOME rain - but it certainly didn’t dampen the spirits of the vast range of performers who had gathered on floats for the brilliant event, including representatives from the NHS, George House Trust, LGBT Foundation and even some Real Housewives of Cheshire.

There was a proposal, which briefly brought the parade to a standstill as Lisa Mattocks unfolded a sign asking Steph Wild, her partner of 20 years, to marry her. It was a beautiful moment which you can watch here.

Our LGBTQ+ reporter Adam Maidment says there was a ‘joyous’ atmosphere that has been missing from previous Pride events. “This year’s Manchester Pride really did feel different to recent years,” he tells me.

“There was a real sense of queer joy and celebration - whilst still focusing on activism and the continued need to fight for our rights.

"One thing I noticed is how there really was something for everyone. There was Family Pride at the Great Northern, the truly brilliant and ground-breaking Queer Asian Takeover in Sackville Gardens, and then the international performers on the Village stage.

“Each bar had their own entertainment and it was just wonderful to see so many people having the time of their lives. The outfits were brilliant, the vibe was amazing and it truly reminded me of why Manchester Pride is one of the