Pride Outside Glasgow

Marie shares highlights from the brilliant Pride Outside event on Saturday 30th June.

My family and I had an absolutely lovely afternoon at Pride Outside in Auchenshuggle in Glasgow this weekend. Organised by the Forestry Commission and Operation Play Outdoors, it was a celebration of Pride Month and a chance for LGBTI+ folk along with friends, family and the local community to get together and enjoy some chilled activities in the outdoors. Auchenshuggle Woods are so tranquil that it’s hard to believe they are located just off busy London Road. The shade of the trees was ideal in the midst of our unusual Scottish heatwave!

Everyone was welcome, with lots of children along with their families. My wee boy Flynn particularly enjoyed getting his face painted, the fire performance and taking part in the adults vs kids tug of war (and free pick n mix!). Groups of young people came down to chill out with their friends for some food and chat, and were able to relax in the hammocks! Some local people were pleasantly surprised to stumble upon the event whilst out walking and enjoyed having a wander round the stalls and activities.

The mindfulness and storytelling workshops were extremely popular as were the creative activities such as designing leaves for a self care tree and making dream catchers. There were also lots of physical activities which got everyone having a laugh together such as hula hooping, the tightrope and some boxing demonstrations!

Personally I enjoyed the chance to just chat to new people in a relaxed way and loved the guitarists and singers who played a very diverse bunch of tunes! The setting and friendly atmosphere meant it felt like a chance to escape the hustle and bustle, to relax and recharge. We had only planned to pop in but ended up staying for a few hours!

I spoke to some of the event organisers and volunteers who all seemed hopeful that it will be back next year. Thanks to everyone for making it such a welcoming, relaxed and fun day!

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