Rainbow flags are prominent in Castlebar town centre this week.

Mayo Pride Festival to be staged next weekend

THE second annual Mayo Pride Festival will be staged in Castlebar on Friday and Saturday next, July 20 and 21.

Last year's inaugural event was a huge success.

With no idea what to expect, the committee members were over the moon with the turnout, which was estimated to be over 300.

“This year we’re hoping it will be bigger and better,” says Niamh-Marie Kilbane, chairperson of the committee.

“Last year we received a really positive response. The town really got behind us, we had so much support which we were so grateful for.”

The Pride committee is encouraging people to join the parade itself and the festivities afterwards.

The parade takes place on Saturday, gathering at 1.30 p.m. on the Mall. 

Friday, July 20, sees a comedy night being staged in The Ivy Tower Hotel, starting at 9 p.m.

Saturday’s entertainment is a variety show with MC Katherine Lynch, also in the Ivy Tower Hotel, from 8 p.m.