A huge rainbow flag has been unfurled above Perth city centre ahead of the region’s first Pride event.
The weekend’s carnival-style festival will celebrate the local LGBTQ community with a packed line-up of music, theatre and speeches.
It follows the success of colourful processions and shows in other parts of the country, including a massive parade on the streets of Glasgow led by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
The line-up for Perthshire Pride includes a joint performance of Disney hits and showtunes by the Perth Amateur Operatic Society and Perth City Operatic Group. There also be live music from local acts Hypocrites and Molly MacDonald.
The fun begins on Saturday from 1pm in the Perth Concert Hall plaza, with an after-party featuring drag acts from 7.30pm.
The event, which also boasts a range of stalls, will be opened by Rev Scott Burton of St Matthew’s Church of Scotland.
“When we heard about the first Perthshire Pride event, I went to the kirk’s senior members to suggest that we host a service to show our support,” he said. “There was unanimous backing for this. In fact, I think they were surprised that I even asked them.”
Mr Burton said: “So to be given the chance to open this event is an absolute honour. The message I will be putting across will be one of love and inclusion. The God that I believe in welcomes and supports people of all sexualities.”
Deputy First Minister John Swinney, SNP MSP for Perthshire North, will deliver the closing remarks.
“Perthshire Pride is an important landmark in Scotland’s ongoing fight for equality,” he said. “I am proud to be part of a Scottish Government which has sought to address injustice and promote tolerance, love and respect towards and amongst the LGBTQ community.”
Mr Swinney said: “There has undoubtedly been progress made both socially and in legislative terms – most notably the legislation of same sex marriage.
“It is important to acknowledge, however, that those within the LGBTQ community still experience discrimination and harassment far too frequently.
“I will therefore be joining my fellow Pride attendees both in celebration and in protest. I would encourage all those within Perthshire to attend the event and stand in solidarity with our friends in the LGBTQ community.”
