Eastbourne prepares for its first LGBT+ Mardi Gras

The first Eastbourne Mardi Gras, organised by LGBT+ support group, Bourne Out will take place this Saturday, July 22.

Organisers who have been staging fundraisers for the last six months to help cover costs of staging the event have also received grant funding from the National Lottery.

The parade will start from Eastbourne Waterworks at Langney Point Car Park on Prince William Parade (A) at 12.30pm working its way to Fort Fun car park (B) just over the road from Princess Park for the main party, and seven and a half hours of non-stop live entertainment.

There will be a dance tent, a main stage area and a market area with community stalls and food concessions.

Stephen Lloyd the Lib Dem MP for Eastbourne, Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, Unite Union General Secretary Len McCluskey and Lord Collins of Highbury will be Marching at the front of the parade.

Entertainers on the main stage include:

♦ Abba Magic the Tribute

♦ Tom Andrews

♦ Georgia Burgess

♦ Luch Stefano

♦ Kyle Finn

♦ Elton John Tribute

♦ The UK’s No 1 Adele Tribute show with Helen Ward-Jackson

♦ X-Factor star Charlie Healy and many national and local artistes.

The party continues at Atlantis on Eastbourne Pier from 9.30pm until 3am.
Star DJs will be on the decks and entry is just £2 per person.
Pay on the door or purchase a wrist band on the park.

Betty Gallacher, Chair of Eastbourne Mardi Gras, said: “It’s all set to be an absolutely amazing day and we are so proud that it is happening here in Eastbourne.

“This is year one and we are confident it will be popular with both families and people from the LGBT+ communities.

“We have lined up a great day of entertainment from 12.30pm on Saturday until 3am on Sunday so come along and be part of it as it is going to be something very special.”

Money collect on the day will be used for equality and diversity issues in Eastbourne, helping the young and vulnerable, and supporting Raystede Animal Sanctuary and Sussex Search and Rescue.