CONFIRMED: Massive 2028 European event coming to West of Ireland
The West of Ireland secured the win with an impressive 70% of the votes
The West of Ireland’s bid to host EuroPride 2028 has been successful with Limerick and Clare selected to host the massive event.
QuareClare, Limerick Pride and The Outing Festival entered a joint 'West of Ireland’ bid and competed with Manchester Pride to host the celebration.
Ireland has never hosted EuroPride, Europe’s largest LGBTQIA+ celebration, while Manchester previously held the event in 2003.
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Bids were presented at the EPOA annual conference in Barcelona over the weekend, where more than 120 member organisations cast their votes.
The West of Ireland bid secured a decisive victory, earning an impressive 70% of the vote.
In a statement shared on EuroPride’s Instagram page, organisers said: “The event will give voice and visibility to smaller Prides and LGBTQIA+ communities across Ireland and Europe, ensuring that every community — rural or urban — is seen, heard, and represented.”
The announcement has been welcomed by Mayor of Limerick John Moran who said: "I welcome this landmark event as a recognition of our spirit, our inclusivity, and our commitment to equality. As host, we will welcome tens of thousands of visitors, activists, artists, and allies from across Europe and beyond to our streets, venues, and public spaces. Together we will celebrate diversity, promote visibility, and forge new connections among LGBTQ+ communities and supporters."
He continued: "It is saying to every kid and adult who may be asking the question to themselves, that they are welcoming in the inclusive Limerick and Clare that we are continuing to build."