Bicester is getting its first ever Pride event later this month, with the local LGBTQ+ community coming together to celebrate over a weekend.

The Pride festival will take place at The Nightingale pub and the line-up includes Freddie Mercury and Tom Jones tribute acts, a drag show and a local DJ.

Pride festivals are a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, its culture and also help to raise awareness of issues LGBTQ+ people still face the world over.

Although Oxfordshire has had a number of Pride festivals, with regular events in Oxford, Abingdon, Banbury and Witney, this is the first such festival in Bicester.

Simon Jenkins, director of Bicester Pride, said: “An event like this is long overdue for a town of Bicester’s size. But there have always been LGBT+ people in the town, and there is growing support for events that celebrate these parts of our community and culture.

“We are delighted that Bicester Town Council now proudly flies the rainbow flag from its main building in Garth Park for the first week of Pride month.

“Now, after a difficult couple of years, it’s the ideal time for us to come together, raise awareness and acceptance of LGBT+ people and the issues we face, connect with each other, and enjoy being who we are, in a safe and friendly space.”

Christina Riley, founder and director of Bicester Pride, originally set it up as a Facebook group six years ago, with hopes of connecting the LGBTQ+ community in the town.

She said: “Growing up there was no Pride, so it is great now that Pride exists both for the next generation and this generation.

“I think it is really important because right now there is not really anything here.”

“If you are not in a community which is supportive that can really effect you, so it is about meeting people from our community and supporting each other.”

She added: “The next generation can see Bicester is a place which is welcoming to LGBTQI+ people. So it is massively important for the town.”

Mr Jenkins added: “We are looking forward to welcoming you to a day of inclusive and happy celebration, one that will be fun for all the family, whether you are LGBT+ yourself or an ally to the community.”

Bicester Pride will take place on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September 2021 at The Nightingale pub in Bicester.

You can buy tickets for the event on the Bicester Pride Eventbrite page.