Hundreds of people braved the rain to celebrate Kendal’s first ever Pride over the weekend.
The town was decked out in rainbows for the three-day festival and spirits remained high despite the bad weather.
Organisers believe the festival was a landmark moment for the town.
It is the latest pride to be held in Cumbria after the success of other rural prides including Furness and Silloth.
The event aimed to make the most of the rural area’s natural spaces by offering outdoor events including bike rides, walks, runs and wild swims
Other outdoor activities and family eco-arts and crafts provided by Ragtag Arts also took place.
On the Saturday, people gathered at the Brewery Arts Centre in the garden to visit information stalls and watch a drumming performance by Drum Nation.
A queer art exhibition featuring the work of emerging artists was also on show.
Jamie Hooper, chair of the organising group, said: “This is a brilliant moment for Kendal – it’s been a weekend full of joy and love.
“Pride is hugely important for the LGBTQIA+ community – it brings people together, celebrates difference and makes us visible.
“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the response to this year’s event and it’s been wonderful to see so many smiling faces.”
Evening entertainment was put on at Bowness Bay Brewery’s Venue with cabaret performances from Kendal-based drag queen Nova Gina and Layla Zee Susan and drag king Andi Blewitt.
Kendal Business Improvement District, Kendal Town Council, BAE Systems and The Berry Boutique in Bowness all helped to fund the event.
The festival was organised by a partnership of local organisations including Proud in Kendal, Lakes Queer Adventures, Kendal Mountain Festival, Ragtag Arts, Brathay Trust, Kendal Youth Zone, The Brewery Arts Centre and Abbot Hall and took place in partnership with the Kendal and Cumbria Unity Festival.
