Dublin Pride parade: Start times, route and road closures

Thousands of people attending the Pride Parade in Dublin last year. Pic: Reuters/Clodagh Kilcoyne

What began with eight people protesting anti-gay laws outside the Department of Justice in June 1974, has since grown to become one of the biggest national and international celebrations.

Since the 1990s, there has been an annual Pride parade every summer, and this year’s event will kick off at 12pm on Saturday, June 29, under the theme, ‘shine’.

The parade is divided into two sections: the first reserved for LGBTQ+ support, advocacy, youth, and social groups, while corporate organisations wave their flags in the second part.

Led by the Grand Marshal, Belong TO, an LGBTQ youth organisation, participants will gather along O’Connell Street before marching past Liberty Hall, crossing the Liffey, and finishing up at the Pride Village in Merrion Square.

It takes about 45 minutes to complete the full route, however, due to the size of the crowds, it can take about 90 minutes for everyone to start moving depending on their position.

A free festival of LGBTQ+ community and culture will follow in Merrion Square Park from 1pm-6pm.

Dublin Bus is operating diversions from 11.30am onwards due to the closure of Merrion Square South and O’Connell Street, while there will also be changes to Luas Green and Red Line services.

Later in the day, the Pride Block Party, headlined by international acts COBRAH and Princess Superstar, is taking place at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, from 4-11pm.

In the company of hosts Sasha Velour and Blu Hydrangea, this event promises a glittering extravaganza featuring top drag performers, DJs and activities like Drag Aerobics and Sing Along Social. Tickets are €45.