Huge rainbow-laden parade kicks off Kent’s biggest Pride event in Canterbury

A colourful parade has weaved its way through the streets of Canterbury as Kent’s biggest Pride event gets underway,

The festival – a celebration of diversity and inclusivity – started at 11am, welcoming crowds for the rainbow-laden march.

Canterbury Pride last year was held over two days, but this year's celebrations have been condensed into one full day packed with things to do 9pm.

Flags were held high as revellers made their way through the city, with entertainers set to take to the stage later this evening.

The parade kicked off in Westgate Gardens, passed through Westgate Towers, continued along the high street, turned right at Rose Lane, crossed the Watling Street roundabout, and ended at the Dane John Gardens - the venue for the Pride festival.

Last year's event was held over two days, but this year's celebrations have been condensed into one full day packed with things to do until 9pm.

RuPaul's Drag Race UK legend Baga Chipz is set to grace the main stage, followed by noughties pop sensation Booty Luv, Katie Price and TikTok star Bailey J Mills.

Black Peppa from RuPaul's Drag Race UK is also in the line-up, and The Oompa Loompa from the Glasgow Willy Wonka Experience will make a special appearance.

A whole host of star-studded performers will take to the stage in Dane John Gardens after the march to kick off Canterbury Pride
Flags were held high as the marchers made their way to Dane John Gardens to kick off Canterbury Pride
The parade made its way through Canterbury's high street and city centre to the Dane John Gardens from 11am

Rob Wills from KMFM will also broadcast live from the main stage across Kent at 7pm.

A full setlist is available on Pride Canterbury’s Twitter page.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to attend the family-friendly event, which will also feature more than 70 marketplace stalls, food and drink vendors, and children's rides.

Thousands are expected to attend Kent's biggest pride event in Canterbury
Canterbury Pride kicked off with a parade that made its way through the city streets to Dane John Gardens

An Official Pride Canterbury After Party will be held at Tokyo Tea Rooms from 10pm, with entry costing £8.

Canterbury Pride in the Dane John is free for all to attend.