Kendal Pride calls itself pride done differently, and the programme shows what it means. Over a long weekend in the Cumbrian market town, the usual Pride day sits alongside outdoor activity: free walks, bike rides, runs and open-water swims for LGBTQIA+ people and allies.
In recent years the centre of the weekend has been a Pride Village in the grounds of Abbot Hall, with stalls, entertainment, family activities and a dog show, followed by an evening party. The Sunday has brought talks and a closing vigil, and a procession belongs to the weekend too.
The festival is run by a volunteer group, and it works through the year on making the town queer-friendly, with a monthly First Friday meetup and a Christmas party.
