About Us
Mayo Pride began in 2017, building on a journey that started twenty years earlier with the founding of Outwest. What began as a small support network has grown into a vibrant celebration, from those early days to a parade through Castlebar filled with colour, connection and pride.
From the beginning, our aim has been to bring people together while celebrating what makes each of us unique. We believe in community, in diversity, and in creating spaces where everyone can feel seen, valued and welcome.
Mayo Pride will continue to grow and evolve, working to support and celebrate the LGBTQI+ community, alongside friends and allies, and to create a festival that feels open, inclusive and full of life.
Pride is a chance for people to come together, to enjoy themselves, and to feel part of something bigger. That matters deeply in rural Ireland, where communities can be small and scattered, and where LGBTQI+ people can sometimes feel isolated, unable to live openly, or unsure where to find connection.
Ireland is changing, and there is real progress in how we value diversity. But there are still moments when being yourself can feel difficult, even impossible. At those times, knowing there is a strong, visible, supportive community can make all the difference.
We want to be part of that. We want people to see that they are not alone, that they have the right to be themselves, and that sometimes the way to belong is simply to stand as you are.
Pride is a celebration of life, of love, and of living fully.
Thank you for the support you've shown us over the years. Pride is for you, and about you, and we will always do our best to make it something you can feel proud of.