London Mayor Ken Livingstone yesterday launched EuroPride 06, Europe’s largest gay and lesbian cultural festival, which will be hosted by the capital this year. The Mayor was joined by Jason Pollock, Chief Executive of Pride London and EuroPride London 06.
Announcing the plans Mayor Livingstone said he was “delighted that EuroPride 06 is making its way back to London” and looked forward “to welcoming visitors from all over Europe and the world. It will be a great opportunity for people to enjoy London’s rich and varied lesbian and gay culture.”
The EuroPride 06 festival will run for two-weeks and feature around 70 exhibitions, film screenings, sporting events, comedy shows, theatre performances and music concerts to showcase London’s vibrant gay and lesbian culture.
Mr Pollock said the festival “will be an inclusive event in Britain’s cultural calendar in 2006 for people from all walks of life and visitors from around the world to come together to enjoy a carnival atmosphere”
Proceedings culminate on EuroPride London 06 Day on Saturday 1 July when half a million people are expected to attend a colourful parade that will pass through London’s world famous Oxford Street and Regent Street for the first time. Both streets will be fully pedestrianised so crowds can enjoy the day of solidarity, celebration and pride. There will also be a rally in Trafalgar Square, and events in Leicester Square and Soho.
