If you look up GWR Park in the history books, you will find a proud entry about the annual Children’s Fete in Swindon's past. Started on the second Saturday in August 1866, the town's oldest summer event attracted large crowds and meant the children, including those from the workhouse, could enjoy a day of rides and entertainment.
While the Second World War put an end to the famous event, it’s revival in various forms by the local community in recent years reveals the ambition remains: for this historic park to remain a vital part of the community.
Turning the clocks forward to 2024 and the relocation of Swindon & Wiltshire Pride - the celebration of diversity and love - to this important green space meant the second Saturday of August was again filled with a sea of colour and noise.
The day started with the Pride March, where 1,000 people sang and danced their way from Regent Circus through the town centre before joining the crowds in GWR Park for the main event.
10,000 people joined in the celebrations throughout the day, where two stages of entertainment included Sonia, The Cheeky Girls and The Royal Serenity.
The After Party at Battle Boom Bar continued until the early hours, with a Beyoncé tribute act, drag artist Dixie Normous and DJ Nemz bringing the day-long festivities to a close.
Press Manager Andy said, “We are so touched by the reaction we have received, it was heartwarming to see our fans come with us to our new home and fall in love with the venue as much as we have.”
Chairperson Paul added, “Volunteers are the lifeblood of Swindon & Wiltshire Pride. We are incredibly grateful to every volunteer for their valuable contribution. The committee is made up of volunteers, and together with the volunteers that joined us over the weekend, you’ve helped create a vibrant, inclusive event where everyone can be themselves.”
“We'd also like to thank our main sponsor, Nationwide Building Society, Pride Partners and Supporters, and South Swindon Parish Council for their continued support.”
While every event looks to evolve - and Swindon & Wiltshire Pride have highlighted that with a new, more prominent location for this year due to increased demand over recent years - as the crowds filed out the gates at the end of the night, you’d be forgiven for seeing the similarities aside from sharing the same date. Events of this size require a large group of people to make it happen, and as the organisers start to look ahead to next year, it’s clear that the demand will be as big as ever for it to return.