On the Road Again

to the Dublin Pride Parade 2008! Whether virgin or indeed veteran of Pride parades, we hope that you have a safe and empowering day!

Before We Go

Start off the day by having a good breakfast. It can be such a long day so you will need all the energy you can get. Such a simple task will keep you singing and dancing all day and night long, especially if you were also out the night before. If you don't feel like cooking, then treat yourself that morning at OUThouse are hosting their Annual Pride Champagne breakfast from 10.30am. So why not give them a try and meet your friends there.

Wear sensible shoes for the Parade. The parade route can be a daunting walk, especially if you are wearing your stilettos! So if you do decide to wear your fabulous Carrie Bradshaw approved, 6-inch heel Manolo Blahniks, make sure to pack a pair of trainers, in case they get too much for you.

Dress sensibly and if it's warm take off any excess (within the bounds of the law, of course!). The sun doesn't always shine so have a brolly ready, just in case.

Be aware of your surroundings and security at all times. Don’t leave your personal belongings unattended or place them on any of the floats. Remember crowds are a favourite haunt for pickpockets. Keep any necessary items, especially medication, water, cash etc to hand.

On The Road

Please follow the directions of the stewards, who are there for your safety and move to the position on the road indicated by them.

Be patient if the parade stops from time to time, as this is necessary to maintain cohesion, so we don’t fragment into mini parades. The whole is really greater than its parts and more fabulous that way!

Make sure to keep a safe distance from any moving vehicles and do not try to get on or off any floats etc while in motion! If for any reason you need Garda or medical assistance, a steward can help you to get their attention.

Emergencies

There will be an ambulance at the rear of the parade. If you feel ill or someone beside you has taken ill, please move yourself or the people involved to the pavement and attract a steward for assistance. If you have a condition that could cause collapse please tell a friend or steward what action should be taken in that eventuality. Look out for those near you; remember - we are all in this together.

Afterwards

Access to the Civic Offices is controlled and access points will be from Fish-Amble Street and Winetavern Street. Security will be controlling these points and ensuring that people are not bringing alcohol into the amphitheatre. The level of alcohol in the amphitheatre in previous years has been the number one issue at all Dublin City Council (DCC) and Garda meetings. This event takes place in public space and it is simply illegal to drink in public. DCC and the Gardai are extremely supportive and helpful in the organising of our event, so we ask that you respect this request.

Portaloos will be available onsite, together with waste bins to help keep the area clean and safe for our fellow citizens.

A control pride point will be in operation at the event for the reporting of any lost items.

At Night

Please be vigilant and report all incidents to the Gardai. Gardai have been informed of all events and you will see increased Garda presence outside Pride events, such as Pride Launch Night, Women’s night and the Pride Night Party.

Accessibility

Dublin Pride is committed to improving access to all our events. Immense effort has been made to find accessible venues where possible. Details of venues disability rating can be found in the Events section of this website.

Wheelchair accessible portaloos will be available at the Amphitheatre.

If you have special access requirements or queries throughout the festival, please contact info@dublinpride.ie . A wheelchair accessible vehicle can be made available for the parade, for those who feel they cannot keep pace with the parade. To request access to this vehicle, please contact us before Friday 13th June at info@dublinpride.ie

For any additional accessibility items, we will try to facilitate you wherever possible.

Take care and have a great day out. Don’t forget to bring all your friends and family members! The more the merrier!