Millport to host first ever Pride festival in September

Article from Largs and Millport News - 02.07.2026

MILLPORT is set to host its first ever Pride festival, marking a historic moment for the Isle of Cumbrae.

The event, planned for Saturday, September 12 will celebrate diversity, inclusion and community spirit, following similar successful events on neighbouring islands Arran and Bute.

Organisers say the day will bring together residents, visitors and members of the LGBTQ+ community for a programme of activities aimed at promoting visibility and equality.

Pam Currie, 51, a North Ayrshire school teacher and one of the organisers, says the idea was inspired by attending Arran Pride.

She said: “I attended Arran Pride and I was very impressed with the way they had brought the community together. It was a positive and inclusive event, and I thought how great it would be to do this in Millport.”

Plans have been submitted to North Ayrshire Council for permission to hold a parade through the town, including a march along the seafront.

Mx Currie says visibility would be a key part of the event, adding: “An important part of Pride is visibility and promoting LGBT rights.”

Organisers are also hoping to host community stalls at the Garrison, featuring local groups and organisations, alongside a dedicated young people’s space at the Cumbrae Youth Group for children, families and young people.

Local pubs are being encouraged to take part by hosting themed entertainment across the weekend.

Mx Currie said the aim for the first year was to establish a strong foundation for the future, and hopes it will have many positive economic benefits and spin-offs.

She said: “The important thing for this year is to lay down a marker and we hope the event will grow as the years go on.

“There are small communities, including Scottish Borders and Hebrides Pride, that have been very successful and we hope to emulate that here in Millport.”

Early interest has been encouraging, with around 20 people already involved in planning meetings, with local pubs and businesses being urged to host pride themed entertainment with early talks being positive.

Organisers have set up Facebook and WhatsApp groups to coordinate the event, and have also held hybrid meetings online.

Mx Currie added: “Inclusion is important, particularly for younger people, as Millport is more isolated being an island, so it is important that we show ourselves to be a welcoming, inclusive community.”

The next organisers’ meeting is due to take place on July 15.

A message shared by Millport Pride on social media stated: "History is being made on the Isle of Cumbrae as we prepare to celebrate the first ever Millport Pride!

"Join us on Saturday, September 12 for a landmark day of pride, celebration, community, visibility, and inclusion.

"This will be a fantastic opportunity to come together and celebrate the diversity that makes our communities so special."Whether you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, a local resident, or a visitor to the island, everyone is welcome to be part of this historic occasion."