The enchanting landscapes of the West of Ireland are set to become the backdrop for a historic celebration of love, acceptance, and unity as Limerick Pride, QuareClare, and The Outing Festival proudly announce their collaborative efforts to bring EuroPride 2028 to Counties Clare and Limerick.
In a resounding declaration of solidarity, these three LGBTQIA+ organizations have joined hands to embark on an inspiring journey towards hosting EuroPride 2028. The partnership marks a momentous step towards amplifying the voices and stories of LGBTQIA+ individuals in an unprecedented fashion.
“A letter of intent to host EuroPride 2028 has been accepted,” says Chris Koble, Chair of QuareClare, emphasizing the significance of the collective effort. “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to fostering acceptance, diversity, and unity in the West of Ireland.”
The picturesque region, nestled along the captivating Wild Atlantic Way, is poised to host this grand celebration of diversity. From the spirited inaugural Pride Celebration of QuareClare in 2022 to the internationally acclaimed The Outing Festival that has been redefining the boundaries of queer art, music, and matchmaking for over a decade, and the rich historical tapestry of Limerick Pride, these organizations stand as vibrant symbols of resilience, creativity, and inclusivity.
As the cultural heartbeat of Ireland throbs through its ancient villages, towns, and cities, the landscape of Counties Clare and Limerick will transform into a tapestry of pride, acceptance, and belonging during EuroPride 2028. From the breathtaking Burren to the melodies echoing across the Wild Atlantic Way, EuroPride 2028 promises an immersive experience that celebrates the rich heritage, culture, and artistic brilliance that Ireland is renowned for.
Limerick Pride, a volunteer-driven non-profit collective founded in 2001, has tirelessly championed the visibility of LGBTQIA+ individuals and worked towards justice and equity, ending oppression, and representing all voices within the community. QuareClare, which emerged as a social group in 2020, is dedicated to creating a welcoming network for LGBTQIA+ individuals in County Clare and has rapidly evolved into a dynamic force supporting pride movements across the country. The Outing Festival, known as the World’s Only Queer Art, Music & Matchmaking Festival, has captivated audiences worldwide for over a decade.
Together, these organizations bring forth a compelling proposal to host EuroPride 2028, inviting friends from all corners of Europe to partake in an unparalleled celebration that transcends boundaries and celebrates the essence of being human.
“The triumvirate of QuareClare, Limerick Pride, and The Outing Festival opens its arms to all LGBTQIA+ community members, inviting them to a New Ireland in 2028—a land of acceptance, love, and unity. Join us as we embark on this extraordinary journey and redefine the landscape of pride, culture, and connection,” states Chris Koble.
Organisers have also confirmed they are working with the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, Shannon Chambers, Quare Clare and Limerick Pride to submit a bid to bring EuroPride to Limerick, Clare and the Mid-West Region in 2028, which would mark the first time that the pan-European international event has been held in Ireland. Attracting over 100,000 people from all over the world annually, EuroPride is hosted by a different European city each year.
According to Mr McGuinness, “Working with our partners in the Mid-West Region, we are hoping to bring LGBTQ+ tourists and activists from across the world to Limerick and Clare in 2028, which would also coincide with the 35th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality in Ireland. Limerick is well accustomed to hosting large-scale international events, and we are confident we can follow in the footsteps of Amsterdam, London, Lisbon, Copenhagen and Madrid in showcasing our vibrant LGTBQ+ community here in Ireland, as this would be the 1st time EuroPride would come to the island of Ireland.”
Karen Ronan, General Manager of the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, “The Bureau is proud to support The Outing and their partner organisations in their bid to secure this prestigious event for the Mid-West which, should it be successful, would mark a landmark moment for the Pride movement in Ireland. Bringing the event to Limerick and Clare also would deliver a significant economic boost to the wider region and would follow on from the hosting of the World Rally Championship and the Ryder Cup.”
For media inquiries, please contact:
Chris Koble Email: chris@quareclare.ie Phone: 065 671 2737
About Limerick Pride
Limerick Pride, established in 2001, is a volunteer-led collective that promotes visibility and equity for LGBTQ+ individuals in Limerick. The organization is committed to ending oppression and amplifying the voices of the LGBTQ+ community.
Website: Limerick Pride
About QuareClare
QuareClare, founded in 2020, is a volunteer-led organization with a mission to build a vibrant LGBTQIA+ community in Clare, celebrating diversity and inclusivity by creating spaces and opportunities for our community to thrive through education, advocacy, and community building. The organization’s vision is to create and promote the conditions in which the LGBTQIA+ community in County Clare feels accepted, respected, and valued.
Website: QuareClare
About The Outing Festival
The Outing Festival, renowned as the World’s Only Queer Art, Music & Matchmaking Festival, has been a trailblazer in celebrating LGBTQ+ culture through art, music, and unique experiences for over a decade.
Website: The Outing Festival
