Doncaster Pride to become week-long celebration as pandemic changes plans

And people from across Doncaster are being asked to join in the festival by hosting events with shops, cafes, pubs and other venues all being urged to show their support.

In previous years, the event has generally been a large gathering and parade – but because of social distancing and restrictions on big crowds, organisers have decided to take a fresh approach to this year’s event.

A spokesman said: “We are very committed to Doncaster Pride 21 going ahead even though it will have to be different.

“The whole of Doncaster is being encouraged to get involved. Whether that’s places of work, cafes, pubs, libraries or shops… anywhere really!

“We want to hear from anyone that wants to host an event and we need your help to spread the word.”

Doncaster Pride will run between August 2-7 and people are being asked to fly rainbow flags throughout the week.

Anyone hosting events is urged to get in touch with organisers so a full programme can be drawn up.

The statement added: “On Saturday 7 August there will be a number of town centre venues hosting Pride 21 events.

"These will all feature acts that we would have had on this year’s main stage, drag hosts and of course, no Doncaster Pride would be complete without Miss Penny - who will be touring all the town centre venues and performing short sets.

“So, not one park venue but numerous smaller venues for you to choose from and we’ll publish in advance full details of all the programmes and performance times so you can decide where you want to be.

“We’ve approached the council to put up the rainbow flags for the week as normal and we hope to be able to have events going on all week in all four corners of Doncaster.

"So we get to meet up with friends and celebrate Pride but just in a different way. We’d love you all to get involved, get your local pub, your place of work or even your favourite café to plan an event and ask them to get in touch with us for more details.”

Email [email protected] for details.