Pride, purpose and penguins

There’s nothing we like more at SMARTY than being straightforward and honest. The world can sometimes be a difficult place, but if we’re truthful with ourselves about who we are, then we’re half-way there.

And what better place to soak up this sense of honesty than at PRIDE, the UK’s biggest celebration of our LGBT+ community.

There are events on all this week, but the big one, the Pride Parade in London, is this Saturday 6 July. The parade starts at 12pm in Portland Place, moving through Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square, finishing in Whitehall. Join a million people and revel in mind-blowing costumes, rainbow flags and the sheer joy of being you, whoever you are.

The backstory of Pride is a heart breaking one and we’re glad we live in a time where things are fairer and people can express who they want to be. But there’s still work to do.

Here at SMARTY we believe we can all play our part by spreading the message of equality and diversity. So, snap, tweet, and tag all the amazing visuals, comments, and slogans that Pride offers. And, if you’re worried about using up your data, don’t be – our great value Unlimited plan has you covered at just £20 a month. It’s never been easier to make a difference.

While you wait for Saturday check out what else is on at the official Pride website. There’s loads to choose from – the best of LGBTQ+ theatre, tours, exhibitions, conferences, museum events and more.

One of our faves is Buttcamp, a HIIT bootcamp run by The Muscle Marys. Great for gym bunnies, however you identify. If you think you might be intrigued by a take on Shakespeare described as ‘A startling stroke of contemporary genius’, then head for the Kings Head Theatre to see an LGBTQ+ all male production of Romeo and Juliet.

In fact, there are over 100 events happening before the Pride Parade itself. Take a look at What’s On or even better, download the Pride App.

If you’re near Trafalgar Square make sure you visit Amazon Music and Amnesty International, grab official Pride merchandise, and soak up cabaret and variety performances from Pride’s Got Talent finalists.

Oh, and don’t forget to show your support for penguins in same-sex relationships. Remind people that Some penguins are gay, get over it. Celebrate Pride with Humboldt Penguin couples Ronnie and Reggie, Nadja and Zimmer, and Dev and Martin at ZSL Zoo Nights. Then plan your trip to Antarctica for the big Penguin Pride Parade in 2020. But remember that it’s winter there in July, so hot-pants might be a mistake.

Whatever the weather on Saturday, go bathe in a river of colour, smile like crazy, share and strengthen that resolve to be honest and true.