The first ever LGBT+ Pride event is taking place this weekend in Co Monaghan.
Organisers have described the event in Castleblayney as a "significant milestone" for the region.
They say the weekend promises a "vibrant, inclusive, and joyful series of events, bringing the local community together to celebrate diversity and equality.
The celebration will begin on Friday evening with the official launch in Castleblayney Library, featuring special guest, Oliver Callan.
Paul Bardin O'Donnell from Outcomers says it's a celebration for all of the community to be involved in.
Outcomers is a social and support group for the LGBTQ+ people in the North East,
The weekend includes a coffee morning at Crafty on Muckno Street, a special production of The Bród, The Bold & The Beautiful at the Íontas Theatre and a family fun day event too.
Paul says it shows visibility, it shows representation, it shows the likes of the scouts who are coming on the day who are doing a Crêpe stand. So there could be a young person, a member of the scouts, who's a member of the LGBT community. It shows that 'I fit in' and it shows 'I belong'.
Events happening on Pride Weekend in Castleblayney:
Friday 18th July, Kicking things off with the launch at Castleblayney Library at 6pm – Everyone is welcome.
Saturday 19th July Coffee Morning at Crafty Coffee Shop with plenty of chats from 10am – 12pm. In the evening The Brod, The Bold and The Beautiful at the Íontas Theatre 8pm.
Tickets Link: www.iontascastleblayney.ie
Sunday 20th July, Pride Family Fun Celebration from 2pm – 6pm at the Lower Commons Car Park (Old Coach Inn). Mc Eddie McGuiness, Circus Performers, Children’s face paintings. Live music from Local singers and musicians. For information follow outcomers on Facebook: www.facebook.com/outcomers
