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Shepparton set to sparkle for OUTintheOPEN Pride Festival

COLOUR YOUR WORLD... OUTintheOPEN Festival is back on November 6-10, and this year's theme 'Colour My World' is set to showcase the joy, pride and contributions of the LGBTIQA+ community. Pictured at the GV Pride Hub is Deb Chumbley, Georgie Poort, Damien Stevens-Todd, Jacq Kiss and Diana F. Padron N. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

GET ready for five days of vibrant celebration as OUTintheOPEN returns to Greater Shepparton November 6-10! This year’s theme, “Colour My World,” highlights the joy, pride, and contributions of the LGBTIQA+ community.

The festival kicks off on Wednesday with Latte with a LLO, a chance to meet LGBTIQA+ liaison officers, followed by a gathering for carers at the GV Pride Hub. That evening, families can enjoy an Opening Night Pyjama Party at Shepparton Library, with crafts, stories, and a screening of Strange World (rated PG).

The fun continues with craft activities, movie screenings, polymer clay jewellery workshops by Violet Birdy, an Author Talk with Michael Earp, and a Queer Quiz on Friday.

Saturday’s Carnival Day at Queens Gardens, hosted by the fabulous Frock Hudson, is a free, family-friendly event with music, stalls, and food trucks, followed by the Neon Sparkle Party at GV Hotel.

COLOUR YOUR WORLD… OUTintheOPEN Festival is back on November 6-10, and this year’s theme ‘Colour My World’ is set to showcase the joy, pride and contributions of the LGBTIQA+ community. Pictured at the GV Pride Hub is Deb Chumbley, Georgie Poort, Damien Stevens-Todd, Jacq Kiss and Diana F. Padron N. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

On Sunday, unwind with a Big Bold Brunch at Elsewhere at SAM, a performance by Homophonic!, and the serene Queer Sunset Awe-dventure at Reedy Swamp.

Festival convenor Georgie Poort invites everyone to celebrate. Georgie said, “We have worked hard this year to provide a variety of low or no-cost events to bring people together in friendship and celebration.

“We know this festival holds a special place in the hearts of our local LGBTIQA+ community, and we cannot wait to see how you bring your own variations of colour and vibrancy to it this year.”