Supporters flock to island as Arran Pride makes a welcome bigger, brighter and bolder return

The fiesta of colour and joy which descended on Brodick last weekend could only mean one thing - Arran Pride was back bigger, bolder and brighter.

Arran Pride’s second annual event took place in brilliant sunshine with the annual parade attracting hundreds of supporters and spectators who added an explosion of colour and a festival atmosphere to Brodick.

Supporters poured off the ferries on Saturday morning to take part in the grand parade, which stretched the length of Brodick promenade, to start the weekend-long event which also included a picnic in the park, a sold-out celebration ceilidh and a dook and barbecue on the final day on Sunday.

Revellers, many in fancy dress or wearing bright-coloured clothes, sang and danced their way to the park behind Arran Library where they enjoyed a picnic with political speakers, live music and other attractions, including a drag queen who compered the event with a healthy dose of good humour.

Also on offer for visitors was a number of stalls for support groups and allied and LGBTQ+ organisations which provided visitors with information, support and networking opportunities.

The family-friendly event included home-grown musicians and entertainers, and the drumming group Sheboom, which also performed at the inaugural event, made a welcome return with a performance at the park after leading the parade.

The day of celebrations was rounded off with a sell-out celebration ceilidh featuring the musical talents of Gillian Frame and Friends.

The following day, participants enjoyed an invigorating dook in the sea before heading to the Douglas Hotel in Brodick where live music from Anna Sweeney was enjoyed on the front lawn with food, drink and good company.

01_B23ArranPride18_23_ Ross_Greer_Green 01_B23ArranPride20_ Arran_Dancers_Fiona MSP Ross Greer speaks to the audience about issues facing the LGBT community. Fiona Rodriguez leads the Arran Dancers who charmed the audience with their dance routines.

01_B23ArranPride14_23_councillors_provost_Timothy Councillors Chloe Robertson, Nairn McDonald and Arran councillor Timothy Billings with North Ayrshire Provost Anthea Dickson.

01_B23ArranPride13_23_Sheboom_drums_atmosphere Drum group Sheboom lead the parade and create a festival-like atmosphere.

01_B23ArranPride10_23_Goatfell_dancers_Brodick Pride parade participants enjoy the scenic views as they make their way along the Brodick seafront.

01_B23ArranPride12_23_unusual_grab_interesting Another unusual but interesting costume on display during the parade.

Police_Scotland 01_B23ArranPride01_23_ Sergeant Kevin Blackley and PC Kelsey Tonner of Police Scotland cleared the route for the parade.

01_B23ArranPride07_23_co-op_support Brodick Co-op staff show their support with flags and banners.

01_B23ArranPride15_23_Arran_Pipe_Band Arran Pipe Band performs at the picnic in the park.

01_B23ArranPride17_23_ councillor_Timothy_Billings Arran councillor Timothy Billings welcomes everyone to the picnic in the park.

01_B23ArranPride16_23_Provost_speaker Provost Anthea Dickson congratulates Arran Pride organisers.