One of Dublin’s most joyful, colourful and exciting annual celebrations is upon us once again: Dublin Pride.
As per usual, there’s plenty of great stuff in store for the celebration — like the Queer History Walking Tour, Pride Day Brunch with Viva and Pantibar Pride Block Party — but the main event is surely the parade itself, so we want to help you get the best possible view on the day.
Since construction is still happening on the Luas Cross City, the route will be a little different from previous years. The parade will assemble on the south side of Stephen’s Green, and march towards Christchurch, over the Liffey and end on Smithfield Square, where you’ll find the Pride Village and main stage.
To allow you to get the most of the parade, here’s what you need to do.
Arrive well before the parade kicks off
If you want to bag a choice spot, you need to get there before the hordes descend.
For your best chance at being at the front of the crowd, get to spot of choice before 12 noon on Saturday, June 24, as this is when the Pre-Parade Rally begins.
The parade will begin marching from St Stephen’s Green South at 2pm sharp.
Pick one of the best spots along the route
There are some spots along the route will afford you a better vantage point than others.
Look for the widest points along the route where you can take in as much of the spectacle as possible, here are a few examples: the corner of Cuffe and Aungier Street, in front of St Patrick’s Cathedral or outside The Brazen Head on Lower Bridge Street.
Elevate yourself in the world
Climbing above the masses will allow you to avoid being pressed against railings or straining your neck while trying to get the best possible view.
If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony overlooking the parade, or have a mate who does, then this is ideal way to enjoy the festivities.
Know the parade’s route
If you’re just a little bit late to the party on the day, don’t worry! You can always get ahead of the slow-moving parade and make your way towards to the finishing point before it gets too crowded.
Familiarise yourself with this year’s route, starting at St Stephen’s Green and finishing in Smithfield, to avoid any mishaps.
For any other info on Dublin Pride 2017, visit the website HERE.