Pride of the Déise - a message from the Waterford Mayor

As Mayor of Waterford City and County, I am truly honoured to welcome the return of Pride of the Déise for its sixth year – a now firmly rooted and much-anticipated celebration in our calendar.

Each year, Pride brings colour, connection, and joy to the heart of our city and county.

It is a colourful affirmation of the many identities, stories, and contributions that make up the LGBTQ+ community here in Waterford and beyond.

Pride is, at its core, a celebration of love – in all its forms. And it reminds us, quietly and powerfully, that love is love. 

That simple truth needs no explanation.

In 2025, we mark Pride not just as a festival of expression and solidarity, but as an ongoing commitment to inclusion, equality, and understanding. 

The events planned throughout the week are wide-ranging and imaginative – from arts and culture to music, talks, workshops, and moments of reflection. 

There is something for everyone – Pride is for everyone because Pride belongs to everyone.

This year’s theme, so beautifully expressed in the artwork and events of the festival, reminds us that visibility matters. 

That representation – in our schools, our workplaces, our media, our public spaces – shapes the world we live in. And when people feel seen, they feel safer. They feel valued.

I wish to thank the Pride of the Déise committee for their work and their belief in the power of community. 

To the volunteers, supporters, artists, and activists who give their time and energy so generously – your efforts lift spirits and change lives.

Waterford has always been a place of firsts – the first Irish city, the first to fly the tricolour, the first to forge new paths through art, heritage, and culture. Let us also continue to lead when it comes to respect, inclusion, and equality. Pride is not a single weekend or event. It is a way of being. A reminder that every citizen deserves to feel safe, loved, and celebrated for who they are.

So, to everyone taking part – whether you’re marching, performing, supporting, or simply enjoying the festival – I say thank you and welcome. 

You are helping to make Waterford a city and county of welcome, of warmth, and of pride.

Enjoy this extraordinary week.

Happy Pride everyone.