Hey everyone, it’s your girl, Emma, back with a whirl of sequins and a sprinkle of glitter. We’re talking about East Ham, the heart of London's vibrant community, where June is always about Pride! And let me tell you, this year’s Pride Month was hotter than a disco ball under a strobe light. I’m here to share the dazzling energy of this amazing event with you!
The moment I arrived at East Ham’s bustling Town Square, it felt like stepping into a technicolour dream. Rainbow flags were flapping proudly in the sunshine, laughter echoed through the streets, and everyone was brimming with the infectious energy of love, acceptance, and celebrating our differences. It’s hard to find words to describe the beauty of seeing so much joyous chaos - a true celebration of what it means to be free and to celebrate being you!
But hold on tight, because the real story started with me. Now, when I say I went all out, I mean all out. We’re talking a pink tutu, the fluffiest kind, the kind that would make even the most jaded tutu critic melt (don’t worry, my fabulous tutu made a few appearances on my social media - #tutupride anyone?). This year, East Ham was living the theme of freedom. You could wear whatever your heart desired, and everyone was there to support you. I even saw a fella with a shimmering disco ball glued to his head – I think he'd won a dance competition, but I wouldn't know, I was too busy getting lost in the music! Speaking of music, it was everything I could ever hope for: 70s disco anthems that would make you forget your worries and just boogie. Honestly, I don’t think my feet touched the ground for the entire day - even my disco moves had to take a break.
Now, let's dive deeper into the details, because I am all about giving the inside scoop:
1. The East Ham Parade: A Scintillating Display of Colour & Love: The parade was an explosion of vibrancy and community spirit. Floats, rainbow flags, music, dancing - there wasn't a single moment that didn’t make your heart sing with joy. There were families with children in face paint and glitter, older couples hand in hand, and friends catching up over snacks and cocktails. Even the shop owners on the high street were buzzing, playing the parade’s music through their speakers. The atmosphere was electrifying, and you couldn’t help but get swept up in it.
2. The East Ham Market: An LGBTQ+ Extravaganza!
Imagine a marketplace brimming with stalls selling everything from rainbow-coloured goodies to vegan delights, artisanal jewellery, handmade clothing, and some of the most stunning vintage finds. It’s like a vintage fashion fair, but with the added flavour of Pride Month! I actually ended up with a rainbow fanny pack. Let’s just say my love affair with East Ham and their vintage selection has definitely taken off. But honestly, the real beauty of this market lay in the energy of the stalls themselves. It was truly an event for everyone.
3. East Ham Theatre: From Playful Performances to Heartfelt Speeches The local theatre was buzzing with events all day, from live music performances and drag shows to heart-warming discussions and spoken word poetry sessions. There was a panel discussion I attended about transgender rights and its focus on positive change really opened my eyes to new perspectives and sparked some incredibly thought-provoking conversations. It reminded me of how important it is to be aware and learn. We all have the power to contribute to a more inclusive society, and I, for one, was thrilled to see a room full of people actively engaging in these conversations.
4. East Ham Park: Where Music and Celebration Meet
Picture this: sunshine pouring over the vibrant colours of the park, everyone laughing and dancing as the music thumps through the air. East Ham Park hosted some incredible bands and DJs that kept the energy high throughout the day. And as the sun began its descent, we watched the park transform into a space of reflection with a beautiful Pride-themed light show that shone over the crowd. It felt like something magical, something unforgettable.
The whole day in East Ham was a reminder of how far we've come, and it gave me a powerful sense of hope for the future. There was this beautiful energy in the air, the kind that makes you feel seen, loved, and celebrated for exactly who you are. It’s important to remember that every day should feel like a Pride Day – the day to be unapologetically ourselves.
This East Ham Pride was one for the books! And trust me, it will stay in my heart forever.
Don’t forget to follow my blog, The Tutu Chronicles, and catch me on Instagram (@EmmaTutuLondon) - for the inside scoop on all the amazing places in London - with a bit of fashion, food, and fun thrown in for good measure!
TutuPride #TutuTuesday #EastHamPride #LoveIsLove #BeYou #PrideMonth2024