Herts Pride returns after two years away

Cassiobury Park will host the county’s biggest LGBTQ+ celebration this Saturday (14 August) when Herts Pride returns to Watford, following a two year absence.

The event was cancelled in 2020 because of lockdown restrictions.

This year, Herts Pride is being supported by local authorities including Watford Borough and Three Rivers District Councils.

The festival will take place between 12pm-10pm and feature performances from RuPaul’s Drag Race star Sister Sister, as well as 90’s pop acts Rozalla and 911.

There will also be an array of stalls on the day along with a funfair and the Herts Pride dog show.

Herts Pride is an non-profit organisation run by volunteers who support the LGBTQ+ community, both locally and nationally.

The group aims to increase awareness around the issues individuals within the community continue to face.

During the pandemic many LGBTQ+ people experienced discrimination due to their sexual identity.

Pride is therefore about celebrating the vibrant and dynamic communities within Hertfordshire.

Tyson Martin, Chair of Hertfordshire Pride Society, said: “I am proud of our achievements in establishing an annual event where everyone is welcome to come and celebrate Hertfordshire’s fabulous LGBTQ+ community.

“Herts Pride started in 2013 and thanks to everyone’s support we are now getting ready for our ninth event. 

“The last 14 months of the Covid pandemic as we all know have been a challenge for everyone.

“With restrictions from lockdown being lifted I am excited that we are able to hold Herts Pride and its return to Watford.”

A number of local acts are also set to perform on stage – including singer Mikey Kanes, drag artist Vicki Vicacious and radio host Mel Switters.

The Herts Pride dog show will begin at 2pm and end at 3pm. Categories include ‘the waggiest tail’, ‘most appealing eyes’ and ‘rescue dog’.

To ensure the safety of all those attending, Hertfordshire County Council’s rapid testing team will be present on the day.

The event’s organisers are encouraging visitors to follow Covid guidelines, which includes wearing face masks in certain areas.

Additionally, Herts Pride will house a Health and Wellbeing marquee with various organisations providing advice and information. 

A Covid-19 vaccination clinic at the event entrance will be open for walk-ins between 10am-2pm, offering first and second doses of the Pfizer injection.

Second vaccinations are available on Saturday to individuals who have previously had their first dose eight weeks or longer. 

Herts Pride runs from 12pm-10pm in Cassiobury Park on Saturday 14 August.

While the event itself is free, organisers request that attendees book their tickets before the day.

For more information about the event see the Herts Pride website, or to book your ticket visit:

www.wegottickets.com/event/518860