Hey gorgeous babes! It’s Emma here, back from a whirl-wind June in Paisley! Let me tell you, this town knows how to party, and when it comes to Pride, they throw the best bash this side of the Clyde! I, of course, had to bring my A-game, and what’s more iconic than rocking a pink tutu? This year, I felt like a disco-ball fairy in my fluffiest tutu ever, and the rainbow vibes were practically vibrating off me.
From the moment I stepped onto Paisley’s streets, the energy was infectious! It was like everyone was collectively saying "It's time to shine, babes!" You know I love a good bit of glitter and rainbows, but this felt different, deeper. It was a wave of love, acceptance, and pure unadulterated joy – all in a beautifully woven tapestry of pink, blue, and everything in between.
Now, if you know me, you know I can’t resist a little shopping therapy, so of course, I had to browse the amazing stalls at the Pride Market. Honestly, the talent on display was breathtaking – think handmade jewelry shimmering with pride colours, custom-designed t-shirts, and locally sourced craft goodies that were both vibrant and beautiful. It was a festival for the senses, and I knew I had to get my hands on some of these bespoke beauties.
Speaking of beauties, let's talk about the incredible parade! A symphony of colour and music marched down the streets, with the whole community singing their hearts out. It was a heartwarming mix of rainbows, sparkly outfits, and heartfelt smiles.
There were so many fantastic floats, all with a unique story to tell, each carrying a different facet of LGBTQ+ pride. There were groups promoting safe spaces for trans folks, others dedicated to the fight for equal rights, and many, many more who simply wanted to dance and celebrate our community.
But let's be honest, you can’t have a Pride celebration without the tunes! It wouldn’t be my kind of Pride without the pulsating beat of disco. From classic disco anthems to current pop bangers, the air thrummed with infectious rhythms. And boy, oh boy, did the crowds dance! I’ve never seen so much glitter and glorious moves in one place!
But beyond the sparkly costumes and the booming tunes, this was more than a celebration; it was a collective stand for something far greater. We were shouting loud and proud for acceptance, equality, and the right to be who we are. Every single soul in that sea of colourful humanity was sending a message – love, not hate, and unity, not division.
It's this powerful message that drives the need for Pride every year. It’s not just about glitter and parades, but about fighting for the rights of all those who have been marginalized, misunderstood, or denied basic human dignity. The LGBTQ+ community still faces a long fight for full equality, and every year at Pride, we remember those who came before us and pledge to keep fighting for a better future.
Now, it wasn’t all marching and fighting – there was plenty of fun to be had! I met some absolutely wonderful people – fellow tutu enthusiasts, disco lovers, and artists with more flair than I could shake a rainbow feather at. Every corner of Paisley felt like a joyous dance floor, buzzing with laughter and connection.
One of my highlights was definitely the drag performance at The Big Top! I'm not gonna lie – these queens brought the house down with their talent, sass, and show-stopping routines. Let’s just say I had to remind myself I was still in my pink tutu – I was so mesmerized I almost joined them on stage!
Oh, and don't even get me started on the delicious food! This town really knows how to feed a party! There were delicious homemade cakes, crispy samosas, spicy curries, and mouthwatering burgers. Plus, my absolute favourite – those cheesy rainbow ice-cream cones that made every bite feel like a slice of sunshine.
The weekend ended on a high, with a vibrant after-party that lasted well into the night. But you know what, after all that dancing, even my tireless dancing legs were ready to rest. It was definitely a long weekend of fabulousness – a journey through a kaleidoscope of emotions.
So, a massive thank you to everyone who made this June Pride in Paisley so special! From the amazing organizers who worked tirelessly to create such a positive space to every single soul who made this experience a dazzling spectacle of humanity. And as I look back on my week in the beautiful pink tutu I realised – it was never just about the outfit, although I must admit that my Tutu Pride game was definitely on point.
This experience reminds us that Pride is more than just a party – it’s a statement, a commitment, a powerful voice for those who are struggling for equality and acceptance.
Until next time, keep rocking those rainbows, be fierce, and remember, "Tutu Pride!" #tututuesday #tutupride
