Frome is celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community with a series of community events scheduled to support Pride month.
Pride month is an annual celebration that takes place in June, dedicated to honouring and acknowledging the LGBTQIA+ community.
Frome Pride marks its third year as a full month-long programme of events, supported by local businesses, artists, venues and an ever-growing community.
Events in the town started at the Independent Market on 1st June, where there was a Frome Pride Youth Market Stage with local artists, young LGBTQ+ speakers and performers entertaining passers-by.
Other events this month include a Rainbow Families Pride picnic at Victoria Park from 12pm to 4pm, this Saturday, 7th June.
Organisers say, “This is a welcoming, low-key gathering for LGBTQIA+ families, caregivers and children aged up to 14 years old. Bring a picnic blanket and snacks and enjoy good conversation while the kids play. Allies are warmly welcomed.”
On Thursday 12th June there is a Fibre Arts Workshop at The Tunnels; a Frome Pride Walk at the Westbury White Horse on Saturday 14th June; a Paint Your Very Own Hockney event on Sunday 15th June at The Mead Barn in West Woodlands; a poetry-meets-stand-up show entitled Explaining being Pan to Nan at the Silk Mill on Wednesday 18th June; and a Frome Pride quiz and wine tasting evening hosted by Givino at Frome Commerce Park on Friday 20th June.
Frome Pride began in 2022 as a 40-minute stage slot during the Frome Independent Market, where it was dubbed the UK’s Shortest Pride and in 2024, the first Frome Parade was held.
“Frome Pride is run by a very small group of volunteers, many of whom are members of the local LGBTQIA+ community,” explained a member of the group, Damian. “Each event is powered by the passion and generosity of individuals, small teams and independent companies who offer time, skills, and support to help make it all happen.
“We believe it’s important for the town to support Pride events this year and every other year, because without that support, the LGBTQIA+ community can feel invisible and left out of local life. Pride creates space for people to feel seen, safe, and connected. Sadly, there are still individuals in Frome who are afraid to express who they are. By showing up and standing together, we help build a town where everyone feels they belong.”
Pictured: Pride celebrations at The Frome Independent
