By Emma, @TutusandGlitter
Sunshine, smiles, and a sea of pink: That’s how I’d describe my June Pride Month experience in Leighton Buzzard! Yes, you heard that right, Leighton Buzzard! While it might not be the first place you think of for a vibrant Pride celebration, this little town in Bedfordshire certainly surprised me.
I’ve been following the #tututuesday trend for ages now, ever since I spotted some fellow dancers rocking those twirly tulle skirts in a local park last summer. You see, tutus are my passion. It's the ultimate symbol of self-expression, of joy, of freedom. What better way to celebrate Pride than with a twirl-tastic parade in the name of inclusivity and love?
Leighton Buzzard has always held a special place in my heart. It's where my Gran grew up, and where I spent countless summer holidays exploring the market and the stunning green spaces. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to bring some sparkly energy back to the place where I've got such fond memories.
This year, it was decided. Leighton Buzzard would have its own Tutu Tuesday, a chance for everyone – LGBTQ+ and allies – to gather, celebrate, and let their fabulous selves shine. The plan was simple: wear a pink tutu, bring a smile, and dance the afternoon away. And let me tell you, the whole town turned out in droves!
The atmosphere was electric as we assembled in the market square. The energy was palpable – you could feel the excitement in the air, like a giant disco ball spinning just above our heads. We had the younger generation rocking their neon pink tutus with bright, glittery makeup, their youthful exuberance radiating like a summer's day. Meanwhile, the older generation was showing us that you're never too old for a good time, some even rocking tutus adorned with their favourite photos and quirky personal touches.
Then, the music kicked in. I have to admit, I couldn't help but crank up the disco beat. "Stayin’ Alive" by the Bee Gees started blasting, and a wave of euphoria swept through the crowd. It wasn’t just the music, but the atmosphere, the spirit of togetherness that truly made the day special. We were all connected, a colourful symphony of joy, unity, and love.
There was even a lovely lady who brought her Bernese Mountain Dog dressed in a pink bandana – absolutely adorable! She told me she'd joined in because she wanted to show her support for her son who is a proud gay man. These small acts of kindness, the sheer power of inclusivity and acceptance resonated throughout the whole afternoon.
We paraded through the streets of Leighton Buzzard, each step, each twirl a statement, a declaration of our individuality and a testament to the beauty of human connection. The smiles on the faces of everyone we met were truly contagious. The whole town felt like one big, inclusive, shimmering disco ball.
Our journey led us to the charming Lake Street, where we were met by the sound of cheers and applause from those gathered in the local park. A talented drag queen graced the stage with an absolutely sensational performance. She had the entire crowd mesmerised with her infectious energy, sass, and incredible dance moves. Her performance, a reminder of the talent and beauty within the LGBTQ+ community, sent chills down my spine, filling me with such an overwhelming sense of pride.
We held our very own mini-Pride festival right there in the park. It was a truly uplifting occasion with laughter, smiles, and conversations that extended far beyond the rainbow flags that fluttered in the breeze. There was food, there was laughter, there was connection, all beautifully woven together in the spirit of celebrating who we are, regardless of who we love.
We wrapped up our celebrations with a giant group photo, a permanent visual testament to the beautiful and diverse community we've come to embrace in Leighton Buzzard. And what better way to commemorate this wonderful afternoon than with a celebratory hashtag? #tututuesday #tutupride
My time in Leighton Buzzard for Pride month was more than just a celebration, it was a true reminder of the beauty and the power of community. The experience was magical. I witnessed an extraordinary sense of togetherness, of unity, of acceptance, and most importantly, of celebration. A celebration of being true to oneself, a celebration of our differences, and a celebration of the vibrant tapestry that is humanity. And that is why #tututuesday is so much more than just a hashtag - it's a powerful statement, a movement, a message that resonates far beyond the town of Leighton Buzzard and its tutu-clad parade.
If you’re looking for an inspiring event, a chance to embrace your inner glitter and make a stand for love and inclusivity, then get your pink tutu out, put on your disco dancing shoes and join me in 2025 as we spread the message of Tutu Tuesdays far and wide! We’ll be back with bigger smiles, even brighter colours, and a heart full of pride!
And let's not forget, you don’t need a tutu to join the #tututuesday spirit. You can express yourself in your own unique way, be it a colourful t-shirt, a vibrant accessory, or simply a warm smile. Because at the end of the day, Pride is about love, acceptance, and being yourself. It's about celebrating the wonderful diversity of the human spirit.
Here’s to embracing our individuality, our colours, and our joy, because at the heart of it all, it’s about making the world a better, brighter place, one twirl at a time.
Until next year, Leighton Buzzard!
Love,
Emma @TutusandGlitter
