Mid-Louth Youth Service host fourth annual Pride event
More than 150 people attended throughout a fun-filled day
Mid-Louth Youth Service successfully hosted its fourth annual Pride event over the August Bank Holiday.
Organised and run by the staff and young people of Mid-Louth Youth Service, and hosted at the Dee Hub in Ardee, more than 150 people attended throughout a fun-filled day of live music and workshops.
“Over 150 people in attendance on the day shows the massive community spirit and support,” said Beth Carragher, a youth worker with Mid-Louth Youth Service.
“We could never have imagined the event to be as successful in Mid-Louth as it has proved to be.
“Every year when we sit back and reflect on Pride, we are always taken aback as to how many people showed up, not just members of the LGBT+ community, but also the wider communities of supporters.”
Live music at the event was provided by David Joyce and Jonathan Fahy, while Maria Treanor of The Mystic Fox and Laura Metcalfe of Moo Movement both hosted hugely successful workshops on the day.
“We’d like to thank our wonderful facilitators who go beyond our wildest dreams and deliver amazing workshops on the day of Pride,” added Beth.
“Maria from The Mystic Fox has supported our Pride event from day one. She has donated countless items for gift bags over the years, raffle prizes and her own expertise for hosting self-love and mindfulness workshops.
“This year we also welcomed a new facilitator for Pride, Laura from Moo Movement. Laura very kindly offered her services to us this year and it was an overwhelming success with dancing, meditation and yoga.
“We can’t thank enough David and Jonathan for their music, and the energy, atmosphere and welcoming nature they bring to Pride every year in Mid-Louth.
“Thanks also to Dee Hub for allowing us the space to host Pride year after year. The unwavering support Dee Hub offers the youth service has played a massive role in the success of Pride.”
Beth also placed on record her gratitude towards Dundalk Outcomers and Cllr John Sheridan for their ongoing support, as well as Ged Nash TD, plus all of the local businesses that donated food, refreshments and prizes for the yearly raffle.
Donations were made from the following: O’Brien’s, who provided a selfie board plus face paints, Spar Ardee, John C. Kieran & Son Solicitors, Bliss Tea Rooms, Ufonez, Brew 22, O’Neill’s Menswear, Life Pharmacy Ardee, Mark’s Pharmacy, McGoey’s Pharmacy, O’Flynn’s Allcare Pharmacy and Clear Cut Marketing.
“Every year we are met with such kindness and generosity from local businesses and without them we couldn’t host this event year after year.
“Outcomers Dundalk were at the other end of the phone every day when we needed support. Thanks to them for the marquees, donations and gift bags.
“Our final thanks is to Cllr John Sheridan. Pride in Mid-Louth would never be possible without your ongoing support.”