2026 Events
Ticketed Events
All events marked with a ticket icon are ticketed.
Some events are paid tickets, but all have a sliding scale.
Some events are free but with limited space so please book to avoid disappointment.
Running throughout the weekend
There are some events which will run from Friday to Sunday - make sure to check them out.
The story of Porty Pride - exhibition and archive
Hidden Objects - Find and Keep!
Wed 27 May
Community Quilt Craft Night
Pub Quiz & Beer Launch
Thu 28 May
Queeras! An Evening of Cocktails and Queer History
Mon 1 Jun
Black History Walking Tour of Portobello
Wed 3 Jun
Anti-raids workshop
An Evening With Jackie Kay
Thu 4 Jun
Fri 5 Jun
Programme List
On Queer Creativity with Allan Radcliffe, Zoë Strachan and Louise Welsh
Claire Sawers hosts an evening of readings and discussions with authors Allan Radcliffe, Zoë Strachan, and Louise Welsh.
Venue: Portalibri
Organiser: Porty Pride
Event Description
Claire Sawers hosts an evening of readings and discussions with authors Allan Radcliffe, Zoë Strachan, and Louise Welsh.
Together we will explore the intersection of LGBTQ+ identities and the written word, and gain an insight into the creative and personal challenges faced by LGBTQ+ authors in hostile times.
This event is brought to you by Porty Pride, in partnership with Portalibri.
Line Up
Allan Radcliffe's debut novel The Old Haunts was shortlisted for Scotland’s National Book Awards and for the McKitterick Prize and was adapted as a BBC Radio 4 Book at Bedtime. His short stories have been published in anthologies including Out There, The Best Gay Short Stories and New Writing Scotland and broadcast on BBC Radio 4. His latest novel is Blurred Faces.
Zoë Strachan is an award-winning author who was shortlisted for the Green Carnation Prize for her novel Ever Fallen in Love. In 2014, she edited Out There, then the first anthology of LGBTQ+ writing from Scotland in over 20 years. Her most recent book is Catch The Moments as They Fly.
Louise Welsh was voted the “Most Inspiring Saltire First Book Award winner” for her debut novel The Cutting Room. Her latest novel, The Cut Up, is the third to feature gay Glaswegian auctioneer Rilke. With Jude Barber, she presents the award-winning podcast, Who Owns the Clyde?
Claire Sawers is a freelance journalist, living in Edinburgh. Claire has been writing about music and the arts, with an interest in LGBTQ+ issues, for over twenty years. She was deputy editor and music editor at The List magazine for five years and has been published in The Times, The Herald, The Guardian, The Quietus, The Wire and The Scotsman.
Accessibility
Information coming soon
Pride Labyrinth
Come together to help make the Pride Labyrinth. It's a 32 foot wide labyrinth communally built with rocks.
Venue: Porty Beach bottom of Kings Road
Organiser: Porty Labyrinth
Cost: Free
Duration: 1 hour
What To Expect
Come together to help make the Pride Labyrinth.
It's a 32 foot wide labyrinth communally built with rocks. The path leads you over and back, over and back, into the middle, then retrace your steps to leave, with the purpose of bringing you into balance!
We’ll be meeting on the beach at the bottom of Kings Road and if you have any ikea-type bags to fill with rocks and drag to the labyrinth, this would be handy to bring along.
Accessibility
Family-friendly event with physical requirements of collecting, transporting and placing rocks on the beach
The story of Porty Pride - exhibition and archive
Exhibition to tell the many stories of Porty Pride, and to record Porty’s queer stories for the future
Venue: Portobello Town Hall - Upper Hall
Organiser: Kathryn Welch for Porty Pride
Cost: Free
What To Expect
2026 marks Porty Pride’s fifth anniversary. It feels like a good time to begin to capture our archive - to celebrate what’s been achieved, to tell the many stories of Porty Pride, and to record Porty’s queer stories for the future.
This exhibition marks the beginning of our process of building that archive.
Drop in to our exhibition to revisit the stories of Porty Pride over the past 5 years - to learn, reminisce, share stories and look back.
Alongside the ‘formal’ history of Porty Pride, we want to include as many community stories as we can. Whether you’ve marched in the dog walk, partied at the ball, organised an event or waved a flag on the beach, we’d love to capture your memories of Porty Pride. We’ll have space and prompts for you to add your own stories to our exhibition, and to be captured forever as part of the story of Porty Pride.
Together, we hope to lay the groundwork now for a growing, evolving, collaborative collection of what Porty Pride is, and what it means to many of us.
With thanks to Scottish Council on Archives and The National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting this work.
Accessibility
Whilst Porty Town Hall is step-free and wheelchair accessible, unfortunately the Upper Hall is up a flight of stairs, and there is no lift.
Chairs will be available in the space for those who’d like to use them.
Hidden Objects
Hidden objects made from Scottish rocks, yours to find and keep
Venue: All around Portobello
Organiser: Stuart, a member of Glasgow Lapidary Club
Cost: Free
What To Expect
I am Stuart and a member of Glasgow Lapidary Club.
I enjoy making jewellery from Scottish rocks such as Lewisian Gneiss, Jasper and Highland Marble. I never sell my work but, instead, I like to give it away to family, friends, race marshalls, charities and, of course, at Porty Pride. This year I will be 'hiding' about 30 to 40 items around the town.
My daughter and her wife have made Portobello their home and my wife and I get great joy taking our two young grandsons to the beach and swings.
There is a wonderful community spirit in Portobello and so I hope you find one of my 'hidden' pieces and it gives you a smile.
Objects will be “hidden” around Portobello for people to find. If you find an object, it is yours to keep!
Cut, Paste, & Taste: Queer Zine & Wine Tasting Workshop
An evening of creativity, community, and queer celebration with Bludge Wines
Venue: Tribe Porty
Organiser: Tribe Porty
Tickets: £27 Tickets Via Eventbrite
Age: 18+ I.D. May be required
Event Description
Beginner Friendly, no experience required
Join us at Tribe Porty for an evening of creativity, community, and queer celebration! In collaboration with Bludge Wine, we’ll be making our own zines inspired by queer joy, activism, and history.
This will be a light-touch zine-making session, with tips on simple folds and layouts – beginners and experienced zine-makers are welcome.
While you craft, Kirsty from Bludge will guide a relaxed wine tasting to keep the inspiration & the chat flowing.
The event will also include the launch of one of our very own Tribe members, Danielle Mustarde’s new magazine, Tell Me How You Really Feel
All materials are provided, but feel free to bring along any printed images, magazines, photos, or text you’d like to incorporate into your zine.
Come make, sip, and celebrate Porty Pride!
About The Host
Kirsty from BLUDGE is a WSET certified cork dork who likes drinking and talking about wine ad nauseum. We’re a tiny queer-owned independent online wine shop in the heart of Scotland who have the pleasure (and total luxury) of being able to source whatever wines we think are absolutely banging.
Danielle Mustarde is a writer and independent magazine fan boi. Tell Me How You Really Feel is a brand new independent magazine exploring queer life. Featuring 12 original essays on the theme of 'Home'.
Tickets
£27 Tickets Via Eventbrite
Accessibility
Parking
Drop-off point at the main entrance, outside Tribe Porty.
The pavement here is a little uneven so take care
Limited free on street parking available on Windsor Place
and Mount Lodge Place and metre parking on Portobello High Street.
The nearest Blue Badge parking spaces are on Regent Street and Marlbrough Street
Venue
This event will be held on ground floor space of Tribe Porty
Step Free Entrance
Accessible toilet
If you have specific access needs or questions, please do get in touch, with Tribe Porty Directly
more@tribeporty.org0131 258 3471
Live Music Night
An evening of riotous, joyous, pumping and jumping live music.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Porty Pride
Tickets: £5-£25 via Outsavvy
Age: 18 +
Event Description
Portobello are you ready to be rocked and rolled?
For the first time in Porty Pride history, we’re delighted to open our Pride weekend with an evening of riotous, joyous, pumping and jumping live music.
Featuring Edinburgh Girls Rock School legends, you won’t want to miss the unforgettable energy these bands will bring to the stage; and headlining the evening in a crescendo of joyous radical self-love will be none other than Tom Rasmussen bringing their blend of dark dance music and queer club culture that’ll have you dancing the night away.
You won’t want to miss the unforgettable energy these bands will bring to the stage
Line Up
Tom Rasmussen | Headline
Tom Rasmussen is a London-based artist and prominent figure in the LGBTQIA+ community. Known for their dark dance music that blends pop, queer club culture, and their experiences as a former drag performer, their debut album, Body Building (Globe Town Records 2023), received critical acclaim.
Maz and the Phatasms
Maz and the Phantasms are a high-energy psychedelic surf-punk band from Glasgow. Born out of dive bars, DIY tours and late-night jams, the band mixes beach-goth guitars, funky basslines, and spooky synths with a touch of spaghetti-western swagger. Equal parts punk and charity shop glam, their shows are chaotic, sweaty and full of drama, where rock’n’roll collides queer theatrics and the party always gets a little unhinged.
Sheila in the Poundshop
Sheila in the Poundshop are an all-gal post-punk band specialising in silly songs that tackles big issues – like the horrors of carpets in the bathroom and dodgy farmers! DIY, high-energy with an unhinged twist.
PONY/ PONIES/ PONY'S
The No. 2 wonky grungegayz band in the UK with light horse/ Pony theming. Featuring members of Petroleum Genderloss and Dear Srrrz.
Ticket Prices
£25 - Solidarity ticket - I have expendable income and wish to help others attend Porty Pride events.
£15 - I am comfortably able to meet all of my basic needs and have expendable income.
£10 - I am employed and have some expendable income.
£5 - I may stress about meeting my basic needs and have no, or very limited, expendable income.
Refreshments
The Portobello Tap will be serving non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks
Schedule
7pm Doors Open
7.30pm start
11:30pm end
Accessibility
https://www.portobellotownhall.org/main-hall
This venue gets very hot…
This event will have loud electronic music.
The dancefloor in Portobello Town Hall is Wheelchair Accessible
Portobello Town Hall has step-free access, wheelchair accessible, accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Wee Ball
Party with the whole family. There’s something for people of all ages; live DJ, storytelling and face-painting.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Porty Pride
Cost: Free - drop in
Age: under 11
Event Description
Party with the whole family, there’s something for people of all ages at the Wee Ball.
Porty Pride OG, Mystika Glamoor hosts the party and brings a special storytime performance, while Annafleur of FEMMERGY fame will get you moving with a fun-loving DJ set spanning all eras.
All children must be accompanied by an adult
Face-painting available as well as indoor buggie-parking.
Line Up
Mystika Glamoor is the surrealist socialist socialite, the High Priestess of Edinburgh drag.
Annafleur (she/her) is a co-founder of queer club night Femmergy and a regular DJ menace across Edinburgh, playing anywhere from Sneaky Pete’s to your coolest friend’s bday party 💐 expect a genre jumble, but a guarantee you’re going to boogie 😙
Accessibility
The dance floor is Wheelchair Accessible
step-free access
wheelchair accessible
accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Buggy parking available indoors
Imagining Queer Futures
A creative writing workshop. Using writing to imagine brighter and more expansive futures, for ourselves and our queer communities.
Venue: Tribe Porty
Organiser: Tribe Porty
Tickets: Free Via Outsaavy
Age: 16+
Event Description
How can we write the queer future?
Around the world, queer and trans freedoms are under attack and creative practice is one of the tools we can use to resist.
Through exercises, readings and group discussion, this workshop will explore how we can use our writing to imagine brighter and more expansive futures, for ourselves and our queer communities.
Suitable for: Beginners, more experienced writers, or anyone with an interest in creative organising.
About The Host
Niamh Ní Mhaoileoin, Edinburgh writer and facilitator niamhnimhaoileoin.com
Tickets
Free via Outsaavy
Accessibility
Parking
Drop-off point at the main entrance, outside Tribe Porty.
The pavement here is a little uneven so take care
Limited free on street parking available on Windsor Place
and Mount Lodge Place and metre parking on Portobello High Street.
The nearest Blue Badge parking spaces are on Regent Street and Marlbrough Street
Venue
This event will be held on ground floor space of Tribe Porty
Step Free Entrance
Accessible toilet
If you have specific access needs or questions, please do get in touch, with Tribe Porty Directly
more@tribeporty.org0131 258 3471
Porty Pride Story Time with Ashley Douglas
Ashley Douglas will be reading from her book The Lass and the Quine, which is the first original LGBT+ inclusive children’s book published in the Scots language.
Venue: Portobello Bookshop
Organiser: Portobello Bookshop
Cost: Free without book or £8 with book - book here
Duration: 30 minutes
What To Expect
Portobello Bookshop is delighted to be welcoming author Ashley Douglas to the bookshop for a story time session in partnership with Porty Pride. She will be reading from her book The Lass and the Quine, which is the first original LGBT+ inclusive children’s book published in the Scots language.
You can sign up to attend and collect a copy of The Lass and the Quine when you attend the event, and there's a free option available as well. Ashley will be signing and dedicating copies of the book on the day.
Please note that the story is aimed at children aged 5-8 but children of all ages are welcome to attend this Story Time event. They must be accompanied by a parent/guardian throughout the event.
Book & Story Time £8.99
In-person event access for a child accompanied by parent/guardian, along with a copy of The Lass and The Quine
Free Story Time £0.00
In-person event access for a child accompanied by parent/guardian - Limited to 1 per person- Free access is limited, so please consider leaving for those who can't afford other options
About the book:
An illustrated storybook for children of primary school age based on the poem The Lass and The Quine by Ashley Douglas. It is a new Scots fairy tale that challenges those you know in a clever and enjoyable way.
The story concerns ‘a lass and a quine whae are awfie different in ivery wey, but whae faw heid ower heels in luve – meetin a wheen animals o the forest alang the wey!’ It has a timeless feel, but what makes it so special is that the love story is one between a girl and a princess, not a girl and a prince.
Ashley Douglas is a Scottish historian and translator. Ashley is the author of the essay My Sapphic City, which was published as part of the anthology who will be remembered here (Historic Environment Scotland, 2025). She is also the author of The Lass and The Quine (2025), the first ever original LGBT inclusive children's book in the Scots language.
Accessibility
Via Ramp - 1:10 ratio, 300g loading capacity
Fully automated front doors.
Clearance to access the staff toilet - 700mm wide
Sound
PA system
Hearing loop system
If you wish to attend an event and require BSL interpretation, please give us a few weeks notice and we’ll do our best to arrange an interpreter
Euan’s Guide Disabled Access Reviews
No Pride on a Dead Planet
Join us for a participatory discussion about what pride is and what purpose does it serve through an environmental lens.
Venue: Portobello Library
Organiser: Porty Pride
Tickets: Free Via Outsavvy
Age: All Ages
Event Description
Following on from last year's panel Protests, parades and pinkwashing: the politics of Pride, past, present and future - this year we'll continue our interrogation of what is pride and purpose does it serve by exploring it through an environmental lens.
We'll be exploring questions such as:
Why climate justice is relevant to queer liberation?
How does queer culture and the fossil fuel industry interact?
What role does the power of organising within communities hold?
Join Rea Cris from Porty Pride and J from Fossil Free Pride for a fishbowl conversation on these questions and more.
Fishbowl conversations are a more participatory discussion format for larger groups.
Ticket Prices
Free but spaces are limited so please book to avoid disappointment.
Accessibility
Euan’s Guide Disabled Access Reviews
Ramped access and an automatic door
Accessible toilet - access via lift
blue badge parking outside
Queer Yoga Edinburgh
Join us at Porty Pride for some yoga on the beach! These classes are for LGBTQ+ people who would like to practice yoga with their community, moving and breathing mindfully whilst connected to the sounds of the sea.
Venue: Porty Beach across from 10 John Street Edinburgh EH15 2EE
Organiser: Queer Yoga Edinburgh
Cost: £6.66 to £13.70 via Eventbrite
Duration: 1 hour
What To Expect
Open to all levels of experience. We will have around a 60 minute movement and meditation practice, which will follow a slow vinyasa style. We encourage choice in your practice, you are welcome exactly as you are.
This practice will be led by yoga instructor Megan (she/they) and supported by Oli (he/him).
We will meet at the beach at the end of John Street 5-10 minutes before 10.30am and find a spot to practice together. If you are running late please let us know by texting Oli (07889275982). We expect group size to be around 10-18 people.
What to bring
Please bring your own yoga mat or towel to practice on. We suggest you wear something comfy you can freely move in (joggers, shorts, tshirts etc) and layers might be useful! You might also want to bring a water bottle.
Accessibility
To join this practice, you should be able to get yourself up and down from the floor unaided, otherwise we suggest bringing a chair or something for support. Practice will take place on the sand.
The Porty Pride Prom Dog Walk 2026
The Porty Pride March. Bring your dogs, flags, banners, voices and friends! We welcome EVERYONE, with or without a dog!
Foraging & Herbal Walk
Whether you are a complete beginner or an avid forager, come along to immerse yourself into the wild food and medicine growing all around us with Soraya from Grass Roots Remedies co-op.
Venue: Meet at Donkeyfield Community Orchard entrance opposite Brunstane Train Station
Organiser: Grass Roots Remedies Co-op
Cost: Free but booking required via Outsavvy
Duration: 2.5 hours
What To Expect
Whether you are a complete beginner or an avid forager, come along to immerse yourself into the wild food and medicine growing all around us with Soraya from GRR co-op.
We will be looking at the nutritional and medicinal benefits of our wild weeds and trees along with how to harvest them and make them into foods and remedies. We will be walking very slowly and stopping often as we visit the plants in the orchard, looking closely at them and sharing a seasonal herbal tea.
What to bring:
A brollie! Unless there are really high winds this herb walk will go ahead - please bring an umbrella to stay dry if it ends up being a rainy day
Wrap up warm - we will be moving very slowly and stopping often, bring layers so you can stay nice and snug
Appropriate footwear for dirt paths (leave those stilettos for the ball)
Any plantlore you would like to share or questions you would like to ask
About Grass Roots Remedies Co-operative: We are an Edinburgh & Glasgow based workers’ cooperative whose central philosophy is that herbal medicine is the medicine of the people and should be accessible to everyone. We offer a series of practical courses and workshops online and in-person, run the Wester Hailes Community Herbal Medicine Clinic, grow herbs in our medicine garden at the Lauriston Agroecology Farm, and produce simple resources to enable folks to practice herbalism at home.
Accessibility
Donkeyfield Community Orchard entrance opposite Brunstane train station. If you haven't been to this beautiful tucked away spot it can be found 30 minutes walk from Portobello Town Hall or a quick 10 minutes on the train from Edinburgh Waverly.
Donkeyfield Community Orchard has unsurfaced paths, some of which are sloping. The walk will involve a lot of standing and we will share a herbal tea with the option of sitting on a bench or the floor. If you have any questions about the location or route don't hesitate to get in touch with Soraya at soraya@grassrootsremedies.co.uk
Queering the Cycle: Conversations on Menstruation Beyond the Binary
Panel discussion exploring what menstruation look like across queer identities, including trans, non-binary, and queer experiences.
Venue: Portobello Library
Organiser: Lizzy Kurtzer
Tickets: Free Tickets Via Outsaavy
Age: All Ages
Event Description
Menstruation is often framed through a narrow, gendered lens - but the lived experience is far more diverse. This panel creates space to explore what menstruation looks like across queer identities, including trans, non-binary, and queer experiences.
Together, we’ll open an honest conversation about the realities of menstruation for people with queer identities - the joys, the complexities, the moments of disconnection, and the unexpected places of empowerment. We’ll also explore how relationships, identity, healthcare, and community shape our experiences of our cycles.
This discussion aims to bring visibility to experiences that are rarely spoken about, while asking: what would more inclusive, supportive, and affirming conversations around menstruation actually look like?
This will be a gentle, reflective, and open conversation, with space for nuance, curiosity, and shared learning.
About The Panel
Host - Lizzy Kurtzer - Life Coach and Menstrual Cycle Coaching for Women, Queer Folk & Organisations. To see more of Lizzy’s work please go to: https://www.innerconnectioncoach.co.uk/
Contributor - Lisa Fannen - offers bodywork for women, gender non-binary and trans people; and author of Threads which explores what gets called ‘female’ anatomy & sexuality, the politics and experiences of the menstrual cycle, and what gets called ‘PMS’. To see more of Lisa’s work please go to: https://threadsbook.org/
Contributor - Heather Marshall - writer, artist, facilitator and access consultant who creates work with and for people who may not traditionally engage in the arts due to social, physical and/or financial barriers.
Heather’s adaption of Medusa, staged at Summerhall in March 2026, challenged the myth that Medusa was a monster, exploring the impact of hormones on a menstruating persons mind and body.
To see more of Heather’s work please go to www.creative-electric.org or www.instagram.com/creative_electric
Tickets
Free Tickets Via Outsaavy
Accessibility
Euan’s Guide Disabled Access Reviews
Ramped access and an automatic door
Accessible toilet - access via lift
blue badge parking outside
Tales From Your Queer Elder
This vibrant, 70s-something, plus-size lesbian brings intimate storytelling drawn from decades of queer experience to audiences of all ages.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Lucia August/Everybody Can Dance
Tickets: £5-£25 Via Outsavvy
Age: All Welcome
Event Description
52 years out of the closet and proudly creating magic.
This vibrant, 70s-something, plus-sized lesbian brings you a celebration blending captivating movement and heartfelt spoken word.
Lucia’s features an exciting world through intimate storytelling drawn from decades of queer experience, she inspires audiences of all ages to break free from limitations, embrace their best selves and pursue their dreams.
Where personal narrative and artistic passion create unforgettable magic.
Lucia August/Everybody Can Dance is sponsored by Sanctuary Queer Arts and Edinburgh Performing Arts Development (EPAD)
Ticket Prices
£25 Solidarity ticket - I have expendable income and wish to help others attend Porty Pride events.
£15 I am comfortably able to meet all of my basic needs and have expendable income.
£10 I am employed and have some expendable income
£5 I may stress about meeting my basic needs and have no, or very limited, expendable income.
10% of ticket sales will be donated to Rainbow Railroad.
Refreshments
This is a sober event, soft drinks and snacks provided.
Accessibility
https://www.portobellotownhall.org/main-hall
This venue gets very hot…
This event will have loud electronic music.
The dancefloor in Portobello Town Hall is Wheelchair Accessible
Portobello Town Hall has step-free access, wheelchair accessible, accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Shunpike Social Club: Live Music
Join us for a dance in celebration of Pride. Brass, reeds & rhythm section on a big scale!
Venue: On Porty Prom Bottom of John Street
Organiser: Shunpike Social Club
Tickets: Free - no tickets
Age: All Welcome
Event Description
Brass ‘n’ drums on a big scale, this joyous dance-along collective from Oi Musica brings the sunshine, no matter the weather. Fans of Brazilian, Afrocuban and Columbian music, or anyone who enjoys a crowd-pleaser played by a massive brass section, will love this!
Join us for a dance in celebration of Pride.
Bottom of St John Street 2-3pm.
Event Host
OiMusica use the music of street bands to bring people and communities together. Founded in 2011 to deliver music projects with social benefit. They are an ambitious, artist-led organisation based in Edinburgh, who create fun and inspiring music experiences for absolutely everybody.
Shunpike Social Club bring celebratory sounds to parties and street festivals across the city, while providing opportunities for players at all stages to get involved in fun, non-formal music making that is seriously joyful to witness!
Accessibility
Blue Badge Parking: Edinburgh Leisure, Portobello Swim Centre, Bellfield Street
🔗 Portobello Beach Wheelchairs
🔗 Euan’s Guide: Disabled Access Guides
🔗 Equal Footing Porty: Dropped Kerb Mapper
Workshop: Queer as in Hopepunk!
Join artist and workshop leader Linden K. McMahon for a creative, time-travelling workshop inspired by Rob Hopkins' book How to Fall in Love with the Future.
Venue: Tribe Porty
Organiser: Tribe Porty
Tickets: Free- Tickets Via Outsaavy
Age: 13+ under-18s must be accompanied by an adult.
Event Description
Not gay as in happy; queer as in hopepunk!
Join artist and workshop leader Linden K. McMahon for a creative, time-travelling workshop inspired by Rob Hopkins' book How to Fall in Love with the Future.
We will visit a future where things are better, and bring back news and ideas! If we can't imagine a better world, we can't create one, and this workshop will help us flex our imaginations and dream towards action through storytelling, map-making, junk-modelling, and drawing.
If you’d like to make a day of it, why not go to the creative writing workshop in the morning and bring your ideas to add to the map of future Porty!
“The world may seem broken, but it is in the healing, in the rebuilding, where hope is found. And we must keep building, together.” - Toni Morrison.
About The Host
Your workshop leader is Linden K. McMahon, a participatory arts and nature connection facilitator whose work with adults and children focuses on community building, nature connection and ecological healing, increasing access to creativity, and justice and belonging.
Tickets
Event is free but spaces are limited so please book to avoid disappointment.
Accessibility
Parking
Drop-off point at the main entrance, outside Tribe Porty.
The pavement here is a little uneven so take care
Limited free on street parking available on Windsor Place
and Mount Lodge Place and metre parking on Portobello High Street.
The nearest Blue Badge parking spaces are on Regent Street and Marlbrough Street
Venue
This event will be held on ground floor space of Tribe Porty
Step Free Entrance
Accessible toilet
If you have specific access needs or questions, please do get in touch, with Tribe Porty Directly
more@tribeporty.org0131 258 3471
Alexander Technique Taster
Several experienced, skilled, and friendly local Alexander Technique teachers will be on hand to give you free taster sessions.
Venue: The Prom
Organiser: Alexander Technique Collaboration Scotland, and Portobello Alexander Technique
Tickets: Free non-ticketed
Age: All Welcome
Event Description
Location: outdoors, on The Prom, opposite Bedford Terrace ( halfway between Morton Street and Brunstane Road North).
Move, breathe & live, with ease – Alexander Technique tasters
The Alexander Technique is a practical yet subtle skill that you can take into your everyday life for less effort and stress, and more clarity.
Several experienced, skilled, and friendly local Alexander Technique teachers will be on hand to give you free taster sessions.
The Alexander Technique supports everything from living daily life with more ease and effectiveness, to navigating pain, injury, illness, or disability, or for high-level athletic and artistic performance.
Alexander Technique Collaboration Scotland is a not-for-profit collective of teachers dedicated to widening access to, and awareness of this important method for self-care and personal growth.
Accessibility
Portobello Community Choir
Come and learn some harmony songs with a focus on equality and rights for LGBTQ+ people, and to celebrate rights won.
Venue: Porty Beach at bottom of Marlborough Street
Organiser: Portobello Community Choir
Cost: Free
Duration: 1 hour
What To Expect
All welcome – no singing experience needed.
Portobello Community Choir is open to anyone who likes to sing. We aim to joyfully connect with each other, the earth and the world around us through song.
Accessibility
This event will be happening on Portobello beach and you may be interested in hiring a Beach Wheelchair if relevant.
Blether and Brew
Come along and meet other older LGBTQIA+ people for an informal blether, with a brew about issues that matter to you.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Porty Pride
Cost: Free
Duration: 1 hour
What To Expect
Come along and meet other older LGBTQIA+ people for an informal blether hosted by LGBT Health & Wellbeing, MacMillan and Sanctuary. This is a space to talk about issues that matter to you. The brew will be provided.
LGBT Health & Wellbeing - LGBT Health and Wellbeing is a queer‑led charity creating safer, healthier, more connected LGBTQ+ communities across Scotland. We do this by offering a range of support, services, and spaces.
Macmillan @ Edinburgh Libraries - We can offer advice on financial, emotional and practical support if you, or anyone you know has been affected by cancer.
Sanctuary Queer Arts - We create Sanctuary spaces, creative activities and inclusive events for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Accessibility
The venue is wheelchair Accessible
step-free access
wheelchair accessible
accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Porty Pride Ball
An extravaganza of queer joy and resistance! DJs, bar, live performances and the community runway
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Porty Pride
Cost: £5-£25 Via Outsaavy
Age: Over 18s
Event Description
Get ready as if it's your birthday, because it is. Porty Pride Ball is celebrating its 5th Birthday. Cover your birthday suit in your best outfit, grab a party hat and dance!
Mystika Glamoor will host this evening extravaganza of queer joy and resistance. The Ball has been curated by none other than Edinburgh’s own club rat and butch poet JJ Fadaka (photo credit Nico Utuk).
This Year’s Theme:
It’s all about us this year, us as a community, us as an uncontrollable force of change, us as a loose collective of LGB…and never not the T!
We’ll have party hats and balloons, but we also welcome sashes, birthday badges and headbands, anything that shows your pride!
🍺 Bar by Porty Tap
Alcoholic and Non-alcoholic drinks available, including a limited edition Porty Pride beer.
Line Up
To celebrate our birthday, we’re welcoming back some of our favourite acts over the last 5 years and collaborating with some new faces.
Mystika Glamoor
Mystika Glamoor is the surrealist socialist socialite, the High Priestess of Edinburgh drag.
Greengiant | DJ Set
Serving up a tasty platter of global grooves, soulful sounds, disco and more from a fully vinyl set.
Simba | DJ Set
An eclectic, high-energy set, he moves fluidly between Miami bass, Jersey club, dancehall, Afro pop and Afro house, with girly pop and noughties nostalgia as the thread that ties it all together.
Simon Hot Mess | DJ Set
As far as we can tell, the world's only out bisexual deaf DJ. A queer institution since 2010, playing fun blend of disco, house and 80s electropop. Expect to sweat!
Gemma Cairney | DJ Set
Local DJ, mama/writer/broadcaster/radio dj/art lover/polymath, 'n advocate in devotion to queer culture!
Schedule
Greengiant
SIMBA
Simon Hot Mess
The runway - get ready to show yourself off.
Gemma Cairney (Headline)
Accessibility
Please be aware that this venue gets very hot.
The dancefloor in Portobello Town Hall is Wheelchair Accessible
Portobello Town Hall has step-free access, wheelchair accessible, accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Outdoor Swimming & Touch Rugby
Have a dip and a run about
Venue: Porty Beach - Groyne 4
Organiser: BlueBalls & Thebans
Tickets: Free non-ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Beginner Friendly, no experience needed.
Meet bottom of John Street and Groyne 4.
This event is open to all genders.
Come along for a quick dip and enjoy the benefits of cold water for your body. Warm up with a game of touch rugby on the beach.
Have a paddle, a dunk or a swim, it’s up to you! No experience needed.
Warm up after with a run around on the beach and a game of touch rugby.
Touch rugby is a fast-paced, non-contact variant of traditional rugby where tackles are replaced by simple touches. Players use their hands to touch an opponent on any part of the body, clothing, or the ball to simulate a tackle, making it highly accessible and safe for all ages, fitness levels, and mixed-gender teams
No changing facilities available.
About the Organiser
The Edinburgh Blue Balls is a weekly men's mental health and cold water dipping group located in Portobello, Edinburgh. Our group meets twice a week for a refreshing dip in the cold waters of Portobello, with a social aspect to the experience
https://edinburghblueballs.co.uk/about/
Caledonian Thebans Rugby Football Club has been thriving for over 20 years. Our team members come from all walks of life. Made up of LGBTQIA+ people and our straight allies, Thebans operate a prejudice-free policy. Allowing everyone to enjoy rugby. Scotland’s first and finest inclusive rugby club, we are now based at the Royal High Athletic Club in Edinburgh.
Accessibility
Cold Water Safety Information via Blueballs
Padel
Taster sessions for one of the countries fastest growing sports
Venue: Power League Portobello
Organiser: Edinburgh Curveballs
Tickets: Free non-ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Come down and find out what padel is and meet the Curveball team.
9:30am to 10am - Welcome tea and coffee with the team
10:30am to 12pm - Games begins!
Taster sessions available with coaches for anyone to have a go at padel either for the first time or to improve.
Beginner Friendly, no experience needed.
Anyone welcome, open to all genders.
No booking required. Turn up and take part.
About the Organisers
Your local, social LGBTQ+ squash, tennis and padel group. We welcome players of any ability level - from absolute beginners to seasoned pros - for fun and friendly games, with optional socials afterwards. Edinburgh Curveballs welcomes ALL
Running
Various distances and pace.
Venue: The Prom
Organiser: Good Time Running Club, Edinburgh Frontrunners, Queer Run Porty
Tickets: Free non-ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Anyone welcome, turn up and take part, various distances and pace.
Beginner Friendly, no experience needed.
Meet outside the Portobello Swim Centre.
This event is open to all genders.
About the Organisers
Good Time Running Club
The foundation of Good Time is that the club is available for everyone. If you’ve never ran but want to give it a try, We’re here for you. At most runs we find ourselves having a run/walk chat with a new friend. We meet every Monday, Thursday and Sunday in the city, Mondays and Sundays in Portobello and Thursday in Leith. All of our regular runs are free and you don`t need to let us know if you are coming in advance.
https://www.goodtimerunning.co.uk
Edinburgh Frontrunners
Edinburgh Frontrunners (EFR) is a running club for members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community in Edinburgh and beyond. EFR belongs to a global network of frontrunners groups, with three located in Scotland, 14 across the UK, and branches in over 100 cities worldwide. Our club warmly welcomes members, regardless of age, gender, sex, sexuality, ethnicity, or running ability. Central to EFR is a culture of respect and a passionate commitment to reducing barriers to participation faced by marginalised groups.
https://www.edinburghfrontrunners.org
Queer Run Porty
A (très) new queer running community based in Portobello. Think: Low-key, monthly social runs, coffee, and chats and bonding at the beach and that.
Follow us @queerrunporty
Self Defence
A practical physical self defence workshop based on martial arts practice.
Venue: Bellfield
Organiser: Rea Cris
Tickets: Free but spaces limited via Outsavvy
Age: Children must be accompanied by an adult
Event Description
This workshop will demonstrate some physical self defense tactics with a chance to practice them with a partner.
This workshop involves a lot of physicality therefore please attend in pairs with someone you feel safe and comfortable practicing these techniques with.
Please note that whilst training will be done gently and with utmost care for participants, you attend at your own risk and if you have any concerns or questions please get in touch beforehand.
This workshop is open to anyone (age, size, mobility, fitness or abilities).
We can adapt the exercises to suit.
What to expect
Warm up exercise
Discussion and demonstration of principles of self defense in martial arts
Techniques for getting out of physical contact (having your wrist grabbed for instance).
Techniques for avoiding physical attacks such as punching.
About the Organisers
Rea Cris is a qualified Tai Chi teacher and one of our very own trustees here at Porty Pride. Please contact Rea on: portypride@gmail.com with SELF DEFENCE in the subject line.
Accessibility
This workshop is open to anyone (age, size, mobility, fitness or abilities).
We can adapt the exercises to suit.
Step-free access
wheelchair accessible venue
Boxing
Coached taster sessions
Venue: Bellfield
Organiser: Port O'Leith Boxing Club
Price: Free - non ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
A taster session for members of the LGBTQ+ community as an introduction to the sport as boxing has many misconceptions of being a non inclusive environment.
Led by non-binary coach.
Contact with bags and pads only, all equipment will be provided.
For anyone to have a go.
Beginners and more experienced boxers welcome.
Come along and learn a new skill in safe environment.
About the Organisers
Port O’ Leith Boxing Club offers courses, classes and programmes, including our 4 week Boxing Basics Courses for total beginners where boxing skills such as effective footwork, head movement and ring craft are introduced. Being able to punch is a great skill to have – but being able to dodge a punch is even better!
Everybody Can Dance Workshop
Come and experience the joy of dance in a safe, supportive, and creative environment.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Lucia August/Everybody Can Dance
Tickets: £5 to 25 Via Outsaavy
Age: 16+
Event Description
Ages: Adults and 16+ Mature Teens Welcome
Levels: All Levels - no prerequisites, absolutely no experience needed
“Everybody Can Dance” workshop is open to everyone, regardless of age, size, shape, or physical abilities!
Already dancing? Try something new and enjoy yourself!
It’s especially beneficial for those seeking to connect with their inner power, strength, and determination in all aspects of life.
Come and experience the joy of dance in a safe, supportive, and creative environment. Learn to tune into your body. Receive guidance in discovering your personal dance, even if you think you don’t have one!
There will be plenty of opportunities for individual and group exploration. It’s sure to make you feel good!
Lucia has been a dance therapist for 30+ years. She has worked with a very wide range of people, including residents of psychiatric hospitals, utilising both simple and complex dance movement styles for personal and interpersonal healing and for good old-fashioned fun.
She has taught “Everybody Can Dance” workshops in California and having relocated to Edinburgh, she has presented this workshop in Glasgow, sponsored by Sanctuary Queer Arts; at Dance Base in Edinburgh, sponsored by the LGBT Health and Wellbeing Centre; and now in Portobello at Porty Pride.
Ticket Prices
£25 Solidarity ticket - I have expendable income and wish to help others attend Porty Pride events.
£15 I am comfortably able to meet all of my basic needs and have expendable income.
£10 I am employed and have some expendable income
£5 I may stress about meeting my basic needs and have no, or very limited, expendable income.
10% of ticket sales will be donated to Rainbow Railroad.
Accessibility
https://www.portobellotownhall.org/main-hall
The dancefloor in Portobello Town Hall is Wheelchair Accessible
step-free access
wheelchair accessible
accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Roller Derby & Prom Skate
Roller derby demonstration & prom skate
Venue: Bellfield & Prom
Organiser: Auld Reekie Roller Derby &
Lothian Roller Derby
Price: Free - non ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Open to all genders and abilities
Roller Derby Demonstration- Come down to Bellfield and watch some roller derby action.
No skates? No problem. Have a go at some off-skates drills and play a game of sock derby!
Skate on the prom - If you have your own skates, come for a skate down the prom.
Skates won't be provided, so bring your own.
About the Organisers
Lothian Roller Derby - Founded in 2011, Lothian Roller Derby is the only roller derby league Edinburgh and the Lothians that is open to all gender identities.
https://lothianrollerderby.co.uk/aboutus/about-roller-derby
Auld Reekie Roller Derby is a women's flat track roller derby league based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Founded in 2008, ARRD was the first Scottish Women's Flat Track Derby Association member.
In Auld Reekie there is a place for everyone, whether on skates or off, and a role for every skillset and the club promotes equality and inclusion in roller derby.
The politics of queer archiving
Join us amongst the 'story of Porty Pride' exhibition for a discussion with OurStory Scotland on the politics of queer archiving.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall - Upper Hall
Organiser: Our Story Scotland
Cost: Free but ticketed at Outsavvy
Duration: 1 hour
What To Expect
Join us amongst the 'story of Porty Pride' exhibition for a discussion with OurStory Scotland on the politics of queer archiving. Exploring the beginnings of Porty Pride's archive to give us our context, we'll discuss why some histories get erased whilst others get recorded, why it's important to capture LGBTQ+ lives and stories, and what difference it makes to be able to see (or not see) the history of queer lives. We'll also explore the multiple, collaborative, collective nature of queer archiving - and the importance of people telling their stories in their own words.
In the second part of the event, we'll be inviting you to share and record your own queer stories of Porty and Porty Pride (whether it's your first or fifth time visiting), to add to our archive and be part of the making of queer history together.
With thanks to Scottish Council on Archives and The National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting this work.
Host: Our Story Scotland is a registered Scottish Charity (SCIO). They collect, archive and present the life stories and experiences of the LGBT community in Scotland. This involves oral history work with all ages, including the older generation, whose stories reveal the tremendous changes that have occurred in the situation of LGBT people during their lifetime.
Accessibility
Whilst Porty Town Hall is step-free and wheelchair accessible, unfortunately the Upper Hall is up a flight of stairs, and there is no lift. Chairs will be available in the space for those who’d like to use them.
Fencing
Venue: Bellfield
Organiser: Dunedin Fencing Club
Price: Free - non ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
We will be using plastic fencing equipment, which is very safe, but it can be uncomfortable to be hit on bare skin so you may wish to wear a long sleeved top. We would advise wearing sports shoes with a reasonable level of cushioning and lower body wear that you can comfortably make a full lunge in.
We will be bringing some para fencing equipment and we encourage wheelchair users to come try out and find out more about chair fencing.
About the Organisers
We're a community fencing club We believe fencing is there to support your health and wellbeing, and our classes and club culture are set up to achieve those goals. LGBTQ+ folk love fencing; we're proud to have a strong LGBTQ+ community in our club.
We focus on working with groups that face barriers to accessing sport including para athletes and we created the Pride Fencing Group
We have a zero tolerance stance on discriminatory behaviour and language.
With support from British and Scottish Fencing, we're now also able to offer Olympic standard equipment for para fencing at our sessions at Southside Community Centre.
https://dunedinfencingclub.square.site
Accessibility
We will be bringing some para fencing equipment and we encourage wheelchair users to come try out and find out more about chair fencing.
Climbing
Half price climbing session
Venue: The Climbing Hangar
Organiser: The Climbing Hangar
Price: £9 pay on door
Age: 18+
Event Description
Come along and have a go at climbing, all level of difficulties are available.
Climbing shoe hire is included in the price
All genders and levels of experience welcome
About the Organisers
The Climbing Hangar is a Porty based bouldering wall with a diverse and inclusive membership. With a relaxed atmosphere and experts available to guide you, we give you a fun place to work out your body and mind. We have a monthly social session for adults who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community & friends to meet new people, share experience & climb together.
T-Climbing Edinburgh is a regular meet up for trans and non-binary climbers. We organise visits to bouldering gyms around Edinburgh and are open to people of all abilities. Our aim is to provide a fun and welcoming space for trans folk to climb together.
To find out more or contact us check out our instagram @tclimbingedinburgh or contact tclimbing.edinburgh@protonmail.com.
Accessibility
Step Free entrance
Accessible parking
Wheelchair accessible toilets
Gender neutral toilets
Daytime Disco
DJs, dance, doodles and dreams. A space to find your rhythm.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Porty Pride
Tickets: Free - non -ticketed
Age: 16+
Event Description
The Daytime Disco with DJ Arusa Quereshi is perfect for 18+ dancers who want a shorter party experience, with the sun still shining when they leave!
Alongside the disco we are joined by We Dream Here; who will offer a neuroqueer, rest and dreaming corner. Here you can be, rest, doodle, stim, dance or leave something on the altar. There will also be invitations to remember queer ancestors and share dreams for future queer kin.
All while you enjoy the how-can-you-not-dance set from Porty Pride alum, Arusa Qureshi.
Come dance with us or chill on the We Dream Here bean bags and take the party and Arusa Queresi’s beats in.
This party is for:
Anyone who wants a day time party!
Anyone who loves to party and also needs to rest, especially disabled and neurodivergent kin.
Anyone who is curious about the We Dream Here corner
Anyone who wishes to stim, rest and chat/not chat, this is for you too.
Line Up
We Dream Here is part of ongoing project by K Biff Nicolson with Luke Pell, Frankie Mullholland, Max Alexander and collaborators presented by Independent Arts Projects.
Arusa Qureshi is a writer and music programmer who puts on gigs for anyone who will ask. Her first book, Flip the Script – about women in UK hip hop, was published by 404 Ink. Expect plenty of tunes by women and non-binary legends, including hip hop bangers, R&B edits and general pop nonsense from across the decades.
Accessibility
https://www.portobellotownhall.org/main-hall
The dancefloor in Portobello Town Hall is Wheelchair Accessible
step-free access
wheelchair accessible
accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
There will access to
Workers
beanbags and some flexible chair/lying down options
Ear plug, ear defenders, N95 face masks
stimmy objects, paper, pens, hot water bottles, blankets
Photo credits: tiu makkonen Photo of artists: Frankie Mullholland, K Biff Nicolson, Nikhita Devi, Dre Spisto Luke Pell early stage r and d for We Dream Here
Scottish Country Dancing
Demonstration and taster of Scottish Country Dancing
Venue: Bellfield
Organiser: Gay Gordons
Price: Free - non-ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Join Gay Gordons Edinburgh for a brief demonstration of Scottish Country Dancing.
Followed by an opportunity to join in for a dance!
About the Organisers
Gay Gordons Edinburgh started in September 2009 to offer Scottish Country Dancing to the LGBTQIA+ community and their friends.
We offer a warm welcome to everyone. Our only requirement is that if you come to one of our classes or ceilidhs, you should be happy to dance with everyone.
We aim to be totally inclusive, to welcome others and have fun through dancing. We offer a warm welcome to everyone.
Our only requirement is that if you come to one of our classes or ceilidhs, you should be happy to dance with everyone. We aim to be totally inclusive, to welcome others and have fun through dancing
Basketball
Drop in for a taster session
Venue: Porty High School
Organiser: LGBT Basketball Edinburgh
Price: Free Non-ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Never dribbled a ball? Rusty? Just want mates to shoot some
hoops with?
Drop in for a taster session and say hi! We are a friendly queer bunch playing casual games.
Wear indoor, non-marking footwear
About the Organisers
LGBT Basketball Group is a friendly and informal weekly group for LGBTQI beginners and regular players alike. We welcome the entire diversity of the LGBTQI community and any supporters they wish to bring.
You must be 16+ to come along.
@lgbtbasketballedinburgh
https://leapsports.org/LGBTbasketballEdinburgh
Accessibility
Sailing
20 minute taster trips
Venue: Beach near Bath St
Organiser: Portobello Sailing and Kayaking Club
Price: Free non-ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Depending on the wind and weather, Portobello Sailing Club are offering 20-minute taster trips in Wayfarer dinghies (2-3 participants per boat)
Leaving from the beach in front of the club (beside the Beach House Cafe).
Participants will need to sign a disclaimer form
Wear warm outdoor clothing and be prepared to roll-up trousers etc. or wear wellies to climb into the boat from the water's edge.
Buoyancy aids will be provided and a safety boat will be monitoring.
About the Organisers
Portobello’s community sea sports club - PKSC is a friendly and active club on the shores of the Firth of Forth, a few miles from the centre of Edinburgh and in the heart of the thriving community of Portobello. Based at on the Promenade at the bottom of Bath Street, members – with appropriate qualifications and experience – can use our sailing dinghies, kayaks and St Ayles rowing skiffs.
Accessibility
Family Games
A first time fun session for parents/guardians and kids
Venue: The Beach near Bath Street
Organiser: Porty Pride
Price: Free non-ticketed
Age: All Ages
Event Description
Bring your grown ups along to help you join in at SPorty Pride
Pre walking crawl/shuffle, egg and spoon, three legged and sack races
Challenge your skills with the marble run, lasso your grown-ups in the gay granny pants game!
Come and join in the fun.
About the Organisers
Porty Pride Organising Committee members
Inclusive Pride: Making Pride Events For All of Us
Workshop run by Equality Network exploring disability, neurodiversity and the accessibility of Pride, through interactive activities.
Venue: St Mark’s Church
Organiser: Equality Network
Tickets: Free. Not ticketed
Age: All Welcome
Event Description
Join Equality Network to explore how Pride can be more accessible and inclusive. Share your experiences and ideas for making Pride truly for everyone.
The Porty Pride team have made every effort to make it accessible and inclusive for all. Unfortunately, not all Prides - or all parts of Pride - are inclusive or accessible to everyone.
In this discussion we’ll share what makes Pride events accessible and inclusive for us and how they might be improved to truly be Pride for All.
This participatory session will include opportunities for you to share your thoughts and feelings by speaking, writing or by joining in a group art activity.
We will be centering the experience of disabled and neurodivergent people, although all are welcome.
About The Host
The Equality Network is a leading Scottish registered charity based in Edinburgh, dedicated to advancing equality and human rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI+) people.
This session is run by Equality Network’s Disability and Neurodiversity Inclusion team who are disabled and neurodivergent themselves.
Accessibility
The venue, St Marks Church, is an LGBT+ inclusive place of worship.
The Diocese of Edinburgh within the Scottish Episcopal Church (SEC) supports LGBTQ+ inclusion through dedicated, sometimes queer-led, services.
St Marks will be taking part in Porty Pride for the fifth year running
Fully Accessible Venue
Accessible parking is available in the graveyard- please contact 07754 873438 to arrange access
Wheelchair Accessible Entrance via Ramp - see images below
Wheelchair Accessible Toilets
Football
A relaxed session of gentle warm ups, drills and fun game
Venue: Porty Pits aka Power League Portobello
Organiser: Porty Queer Football Community
Price: Free non ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
FREE give it a go football session to celebrate Porty Pride!
Never played before? Haven't played for ages? Want a fun way to exercise and meet friendly peeps?
If you identify as LGBTQIA and are over 18, join us.
A relaxed session of gentle warm ups, drills and fun games. Come for a wee bit or the whole thing.
See if you like it... And if you do, join our weekly games!
Warning: it is highly addictive. No metal studs please, only moulded studs or trainers.
Changing facilities and toilets are available.
About the Organisers
Porty Queer Football Community (PQFC) started in 2023, they play in Porty, all queers welcome, no experience needed. Connect with them @portyqueerfootballcommunity
Accessibility
Walking Football
Low impact, non-contact football
Venue: Porty Pits aka Power League Portobello
Organiser:
Price: Free non- ticketed
Age: 18+
Event Description
Taster sessions brought to you by experienced coach Blu.
All are welcome to come and try for some fun, fitness and no experience needed.
This is a low impact, non contact sport.
No metal studs please, only moulded studs or trainers.
Changing facilities and toilets are available.
About the Organisers
Vinnette (aka Blu) is the Coach for the Steppers Over 40s at the Women of Colour Football Club, based in North London. The club has been successfully running for the past five years, creating opportunities for women to stay active, connected, and confident through football.
Blu’s coaching style focuses on building an inclusive, warm, and friendly environment where every player feels welcome, supported, and valued regardless of their experience or ability level. She is passionate about encouraging participation, teamwork, confidence-building, and enjoyment of the game
Over the years, Blu has coached women of all abilities and has successfully led her team in friendly matches, local tournaments, and national competitions.
Blu’s leadership and supportive approach have helped create a strong community where women can enjoy football, improve their wellbeing, and build lasting friendships.
Shinty
Venue: Joppa Quarry Park
Organiser: Tayforth Camanachd
Price:
Age: 18+
Event Description
Come and have a go at Scotlands oldest national sport.
It is a full contact, stick and ball team sport. We will provide sticks and helmets and will show you the basic skills.
Anyone is welcome to join, bring shinpads and football boots if you have them.
This will be on grass.
We'll go over the basic skills of the game through relaxed drills before a fun, friendly game. While shinty is a contact sport, we always move at your pace and comfort levels in taster sessions.
No changing facilities available.
About the Organisers
Tayforth Camanachd is Edinburgh's local shinty team. Our focus is on providing community sport with the opportunity for growth and competition.
Our mixed training allows everyone to train together, and our men's team regularly field as a mixed team.
We compete in tournament days in mixed teams which provide an opportunity for social competition, as well as running regular free taster sessions which are a commitment free way to enjoy the sport in a smaller group.
Tayforth currently fields two teams - one in the Women's South League and one in the Men's South 2 League.
Edinburgh Art Festival Film Screenings
Two-part film screening event sharing local Scottish queer histories and acts of community resilience.
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: EAF and Bona Varda
Tickets: £5 to 25 Via Outsaavy
Age: All Ages
Event Description
Join EAF and Bona Varda for a two-part screening event sharing local Scottish queer histories and acts of community resilience.
Fairy Heights is a powerful short documentary exploring the Grassmarket housing block in Edinburgh, where queer residents built a vital network of care during the AIDS crisis. Through interviews with former residents, the film brings to life a community defined by solidarity and chosen family. Presented in partnership with Lavender Menace.
Alasdair is an intimate documentary, offering a glimpse into the life of Alasdair, Gaelic broadcaster, translator and writer. Set against the striking landscape of the Isle of Skye, the short film follows Alasdair on a deeply moving 10-day journey to summit to Sgùrr Alasdair, the highest peak in the Inner Hebrides, reflecting with honesty and depth on the realities of living with AIDS. This special film was found after 35 years through the support of David McLean (Bona Varda), following a search prompted by EAF’s World Aids Day event on 1 December 2026.
EAF will be selling a limited run of screen printed ‘Support Your Local Queer Archive’ t-shirts, raising money for Lavender Menace Queer Books Archive’s ongoing Save Lavender Menace fundraiser.
Ticket Prices
£15 I am comfortably able to meet all of my basic needs and have expendable income.
£10 I am employed and have some expendable income.
£5 I may stress about meeting my basic needs and have no, or very limited, expendable income.
£20 Festival ticket to see this and the SQIFF event
Accessibility
https://www.portobellotownhall.org/main-hall
The dancefloor in Portobello Town Hall is Wheelchair Accessible
step-free access
wheelchair accessible
accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Film Festival - Edinburgh Art Festival 2 Part Screening and Film Night with SQIFF
An intersectional, intergenerational celebration of queer storytelling.
For details on Edinburgh Art Festival screenings from 4:00pm to 5:30pm go to all events on the home page - Festival tickets for both available on Outsavvy
Venue: Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Porty Pride + SQIFF
Tickets : £5-15 Via Outsavvy
Age: 18+
Event Description
Once again, SQIFF and Porty Pride are teaming up to bring you an eclectic mix of queer short films.
This edition celebrates multi-cultural intersections in queer cinema.
The first film, Who Will Be Remembered Here, is a brave tale of reclaiming history against the backdrop of rural Scotland.
Next is Dissonance which follows a young Black woman fleeing a homophobic upbringing and discovering herself in Glasgow.
Then we have Oceania, a colourful, softly lit short about a teenage gamer dealing with grief. This is followed by a moving animation named Two Black Boys in Paradise that explores the joys and woes of queer black gays passionately in love.
Then comes Two Travelling Aunties, the adorable and funny story of two older lesbians from Singapore living out their dream travelling the world together in their van.
Last but not least is the hilarious Sriracha. An east-asian drag king and a Turkish kebab chef clash over the condiment but are brought together by their rage towards some drunk British lads.
Then please join us for a chatty informal Q&A with some of the filmmakers, hosted by Nat Lall.
🍺 Refreshments
The Portobello Tap will be serving non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks
Ticket Prices
£15 - I am comfortably able to meet all of my basic needs and have expendable income.
£10 - I am employed and have have some expendable income.
£5 - I may stress about meeting my basic needs and have no or very limited expendable income.
Or £20 for combined ticket with Porty Pride in partnership with Edinburgh Art Festival
Accessibility
All films will have captions and there will be a BSL Interpreter for the Q&A session
The dance floor is wheelchair Accessible
step-free access
wheelchair accessible
accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Pride After Party with Closet Brewing and The Rusty Seagull
Celebrate and see out Porty Pride with a Spotify Jam After Party Night
Venue: The Rusty Seagull
Organiser: Porty Pride, Rusty Seagull, Closet Brewing
Tickets: £5 Via Outsaavy
Age: 18+
Event Description
Celebrate and see out Porty Pride with a Spotify Jam After Party Night.
Think of Spotify it like a digital, jukebox where everyone in the room has a remote. Just like people lining up at a jukebox, Jam allows everyone to add their "selections" to the list. However, instead of waiting in line, everyone adds songs simultaneously from their own phones.
Tickets
£5 Via Outsaavy
Refreshments
Rusty Seagull Food Meu
Closet Brewing will be providing some fan favourite beers for the night, including They're Turning The Friggin Frogs Gay and the return of Gal Pals.
An Evening With Jackie Kay
An evening that celebrates storytelling, connection, and the enduring power of words.
Venue: Portobello Bookshop
Organiser: Portobello Bookshop
Tickets: Via The Portobello Book Shop 🎟️
Age: All welcome
Event Description
Brought to you in partnership with Porty Pride and The Portobello Bookshop, this event offers a unique opportunity to spend time with a writer whose work has shaped contemporary literature and spoken powerfully to themes of identity, belonging, love, and community.
Jackie Kay is an award-winning poet, novelist, and former Makar of Scotland, widely recognised for her warmth, wit, and deeply human storytelling. From her groundbreaking debut collection The Adoption Papers, which explores family, race, and identity through multiple voices, to her more recent work including May Day, her writing continues to resonate with honesty, insight, and emotional depth.
This evening will celebrate the breadth of Jackie Kay’s extraordinary career tracing the journey from her early work to her latest writing alongside readings, reflections, and conversation.
Whether you’ve followed her work for years or are discovering it for the first time, this promises to be a rich, welcoming, and inspiring event.
Come and be part of an evening that celebrates storytelling, connection, and the enduring power of words. We look forward to welcoming you
Ticket Prices
£10.99 - Book & In-person Audience
In-person access, along with a physical copy of May Day (RRP £10.99) - Limited to 4 per person
£5.00 In-person Audience
In-person event access (ticket-only) - Limited to 4 per person. This is not a voucher, so it is not redeemable against the price of the book at the event.
£0.00 Free In-person Audience
Free in-person event access - Limited to 1 per person - Free access is limited, so please consider leaving for those who can't afford other options
Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
Via Ramp - 1:10 ratio, 300g loading capacity
Fully automated front doors.
Clearance to access the staff toilet - 700mm wide
Sound
PA system
hearing loop system
If you wish to attend an event and require BSL interpretation, please give us a few weeks notice and we’ll do our best to arrange an interpreter
Anti-Raids Workshop
Find out how to help stop immigration raids and to keep our neighbours safe
Venue: Portobello Library
Organiser: Edinburgh Anti-Raids
Tickets: Free Tickets Via Outsavvy
Age: 18+
Event Description
Our "Raids 101" workshop covers what raids are, how they happen in Edinburgh, the rights of a detainee and how bystanders can recognise and resist raids effectively.
About The Host
Edinburgh Anti-Raids is a friendly community group in Edinburgh who meet up regularly to help stop immigration raids and to keep our neighbours safe.
We educate ourselves and others about the Hostile Environment by delivering workshops and trainings, running regular stalls throughout the city, and undertaking community outreach.
Accessibility
Euan’s Guide Disabled Access Reviews
Ramped access and an automatic door
Accessible toilet - access via lift
blue badge parking outside
Black History Walking Tour of Portobello
Intriguing tales of Edinburgh's seaside and its historical connections with Africa and the Caribbean.
Venue: Outside Portobello Town Hall
Organiser: Black History Walking Tours Edinburgh
Tickets: £12.50 via Black History Scotland
Age: 13+
Event Description
Enjoy a circular walk of Portobello
Porty has many historical connections with Africa and the Caribbean. Who knew that in the early 19th century an elite Jamaican family lived where Greggs now stands?
The family of a Grenada-born poet just along Bath Street? Why were performers from Somalia living on the sea front over 100 years ago? Come out to hear intriguing tales of Edinburgh's seaside.
Age 13+ under-18s should be accompanied by an adult.
Meet outside Portobello Town Hall
Organiser Bio
Black History Walking Tours Edinburgh was founded by Lisa Williams in 2018. Lisa is of Caribbean British heritage, lived in Grenada for 20 years and moved to Edinburgh in 2011.
A Research Fellow at Edinburgh University, her unique approach comes from childhood stays in the islands, studying Caribbean history and society for her degree in the 1990s, and teaching primary school in Grenada.
Accessibility
Information coming soon
Queeras! An Evening of Cocktails and Queer History
Join Greg, an amateur cocktail enthusiast, for an evening of cocktail making and queer history.
Venue: Rising Tide Cafe
Organiser: Greg Flett
Cost: £25 via Outsavvy
Duration: 2 hours
What To Expect
Join Greg, an amateur cocktail enthusiast, for an evening of cocktail making and queer history.
You’ll be guided to make three cocktails appropriate to the era and, while you sip, you’ll hear all about an important figure from queer history.
3 cocktails are included with the ticket price. Soft drinks are available to purchase.
Essential: Please bring your own cocktail shaker (or large jar, if you don't have one to hand)
If possible, please bring an electric scale or measure for 25/50ml.
18+ ID may be required
Accessibility
Unfortunately the venue is not accessible
Porty Pride Pub Quiz
Beer! Quiz! Prizes!
Venue: Portobello Tap
Organiser: Porty Pride
Tickets: Book per team Via Outsavvy
Age: 18+
Event Description
Doors from 7:30pm, Quiz Starts 8pm
What better way to kick off the Porty Pride festivities than our first ever LGBTQ+ themed Pub Quiz and the launch of this year’s limited run Porty Pride Beer.
In partnership with Porty Tap and Cross Borders Brewery, join us to enjoy a refreshing pint and test your general knowledge.
Get your teams ready for a ten-round bonanza, with picture rounds to compete for prizes that include tickets to the Porty Pride Birthday Ball and limited edition Porty Pride merch. Prize for best team name too!
This quizzing is serious so phones are not allowed.
Aged 18+ only
Ticket Prices
Booking is required.
Book one ticket per team:
£8 for a 4 person team
£10 for a 5 person team
£12 for a 6 person team
(Equivalent to £2 per person)
Refreshments
Portobello Tap features 18 draught lines and 2 cask ale lines pouring a wide range of craft beers, lagers, and ciders. Alcohol free options and soft drinks also available
Food Menu
Accessibility
Venue Website
0131 629 6266
Dog Friendly
Entrance ramp available on request
No wheelchair accessible bathroom
Community Quilt Craft Night
A relaxed evening of crafting and chat. Contribute to Porty Pride’s fifth anniversary collaborative quilt-making project.
Venue: Portobello Library
Organiser: Porty Pride
Tickets: Free Via Outsavvy
Age: All Welcome
Event Description
To celebrate Porty Pride’s fifth anniversary in 2026, we’re inviting our community to get involved in a collaborative quilt-making project.
Inspired by the AIDS Memorial Quilt, we’re aiming to tell the stories of Porty Pride, and celebrate the diversity of people and organisations who are part of it.
Come along to make your patch in community and get inspired. Lots of free fabric and supplies provided!
Friendly volunteers will be on hand to help, share some creative inspiration and techniques.
No experience required, and all ages welcome (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).
Refreshments
This is a sober event, soft drinks and snacks provided.
Accessibility
Euan’s Guide Disabled Access Reviews
Accessible Gender-neutral Toilets
Step Free Access
Wheelchair Accessible
Dyke Bar at Porty Pride
Dyke Bar at Porty Pride 2025
Free Pub Night for lesbians, dykes, trans dykes, bi dykes, non-binary dykes, dykes of colour, elder dykes, disabled dykes, butch dykes, femme dykes, friendly dykes, lonely dykes, all dykes welcome!
This is an 18+ event
This is an indoor event.
Big Queer Poetry Night
Following the success of last year’s poetry night and open mic, we’re thrilled to present another evening of poetry celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.
Curated by Jess Orr, Hosted by Ross McFarlane and featuring guest spots from some of Scotland’s top talent: Harry Josephine Giles, Janette Ayachi, RJ Hunter and Drew Gill.
There will also be a chance to sign up on the night to take part in the open mic (limited slots available, arrive early to secure your spot).
The Portobello Tap will be serving non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks
This is a ticketed event
Featured Line Up
Harry Josephine Giles
Harry Josephine Giles is from Orkney and lives in Leith. Her latest book is Them! (Picador 2024). Her verse novel Deep Wheel Orcadia won the 2022 Arthur C. Clarke Award for science fiction book of the year. She has a PhD in Creative Writing from Stirling. Her show Drone debuted in the Made in Scotland Showcase at the 2019 Edinburgh Fringe and toured internationally. www.harryjosephine.com
Janette Ayachi
Janette Ayachi is a Scottish-Algerian poet. Her poetry, prose and essays have been translated into several languages in newspapers & anthologies. She’s the author of the children's book: The Mermaid, The Girl and The Gondola, illustrated by Fabio Perla, Hand Over Mouth Music, which won the Saltire Poetry Book of the Year Literary Award 2019, and Quick Fire, Slow Burning, which was shortlisted for Scotland’s National Book Awards & The Laurel Prize 2024. She’s a regular on BBC arts programmes and collaborates with artists, performing at international festivals. She’s currently writing her travel memoir Lonerlust and debut sapphic romance novel Of Sweet Figs and is looking for an agent!
RJ Hunter
RJ Hunter (they/she) is an award-winning writer, theatre-maker and performance poet based in Scotland. Hunter’s debut poetry pamphlet, “Flustercuck” was released in June 2023, whilst “Stupid Sexy Poem Show”, Hunter’s first full-length solo show, has been performed to sold-out crowds across the country, met with critical acclaim, including being deemed “the future voice of the medium of spoken-word” (Corr Blimey). RJ Hunter is the 2023 Loud Poets Grand Slam Champion and the Runner-Up at the Scottish Slam Championship 2024 & 2025
Drew Gill
Drew Gill emerged onto the poetry scene in Autumn of 2023, bringing with him a storied heartbreak and a deep appreciation for all things lyrical. Immersing himself in the wonderful Scottish Spoken Word Community, he found not only the perfect place to hone his craft as he weaved worlds out of the catharsis found in writing your way out of pain, but some the greatest individuals and artists one could ever have the pleasure of knowing.
Ross McFarlane - Host
Ross McFarlane is a Glaswegian poet, performer and host of many nights – writing queer stories and small moments with the delivery of a 80’s hardcore band. He co-created and wrote on horror audio drama series Folxlore, winner of Best New Storytelling Production at the 2020 Audio Verse Awards, and his debut pamphlet, Life Goals of the Millennials: or The Commune Manifesto, was published by Burning Eye Books in 2022.
This is an indoor event.
Portobello Town Hall has step-free access, wheelchair accessible, accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms
Soul Water Trans and Non-Binary Sauna
Porty Pride - Trans & Non-Binary Sauna 95mins (Sun 8th June) with SWS Portobello 95mins
1 hour 35 minutes @ £21.00
This particular session is designed especially with Trans and Non-Binary folks in mind, offering a more intimate and affirming space. As with all our events, everyone is welcome — but this session centres the experiences and comfort of Trans and Non-Binary guests.
For this event, our regular changing space will be adapted to provide complete privacy, ensuring a more comfortable and respectful environment for all.
Chosen Charity for this event: LGBT Youth Scotland (£10 from 90min)
On a low income? We have a limited amount of “Pay It Forward” sessions, please request these via hello@soulwatersauna.com
Oi Musica presents Shunpike Social Club
Shunpike Social Club is a loose collective of 30-odd players bringing Cumbia, Brazilian and Cuban music alive with big band flair. Think brass, reeds & rhythm section on a big scale!
Shunpike Social Club, directed by Oi Musica's Marcus Britton, bring celebratory sounds to street festivals, while providing opportunities for players at all stages to get involved in fun, non-formal music making that is seriously joyful to witness!
Head down to Porty Prom (the bottom of John Street) to enjoy the sounds of Shunpike Social Club. We're planning to include a short parade along the prom to start the show at 1.30 from outside the Swimming Baths, and head towards the Community Garden to play the rest of the set there (parade element will be about 5 minutes).
This is an outdoor event.
Carnival Drumming Workshop with the Edinburgh Samba School
The Edinburgh Samba School, are proud to have been a regular feature at Porty Pride - you can see the band play this year at the end of Saturday’s dog walk on the prom.
On Sunday, from 12.30 to 2.30, it’s over to you to make some noise with us!
We’ll introduce you to some of the rhythms of the Brazilian carnival drumming tradition, with its range of instruments, and by the end of the workshop, we’ll be playing together as a community of music makers, whether you’ve drummed before or are a first time player.
Samba and carnival percussion is a way of joyfully taking up space, and this workshop is for LGBTQIA+ community and allies, aged 16+.
There is a mix of free tickets, pay-what-you-can, and supporter tickets. All donations cover running costs, and any surplus will go back into supporting TESS’ and Porty Pride’s work.
Please note this is a ticketed event and is restricted to 30 people.
Access info:
The workshop can be accessed from seated or standing, and instruments range from light and hand-held percussion to slightly larger drums that are worn on the body or on stands.
Earplugs will be provided. If it is your preference to wear over-the-head ear protection it may be best to bring your own.
All drums, sticks and stands/straps are provided.
This is an indoor event. The space will be well ventilated and respirator masks will be available if required. Please do not attend if you have any symptoms that may be contagious or if you have tested positive for Covid 19.
The venue is on the ground floor, and wheelchair accessible.
There are accessible gender-neutral toilets.
Please contact with any questions about access.
Photography Exhibition
Portobello High School proactively engaged with Porty Pride and we are excited to share we have a photography exhibition project for a group of the young folk to take part in. They were asked to photograph what Pride in Community means to them.
Images for this exhibition were selected from the young people’s shortlist with support from photographer Alicia Bruce of Portobello Photography School. Alicia enjoyed seeing the range of images and projects undertaken by the students who had a clear interest in documenting Pride visibility and solidarity in our local community.
Portobello Photography School is based by Edinburgh’s seaside. We provide supportive outdoor photography workshops led by award winning professional photographer, community collaborator and experienced educator Alicia Bruce. Our founder and tutor has twenty years of professional photography experience and is a qualified educator with over fifteen years of teaching experience. To book more courses and find the most up to date information follow @portyphoto on our social media channels and follow our Eventbrite.
Soul Water LGBTQIA+ Sauna
Porty Pride - LGBTQIA+ sauna 65mins (Sun 8 June) with SWS Portobello 65 mins
1 hour 5 minutes @ £14.50
Book a seat in our welcoming and open sauna space for LGBTQIA+ people living in and around Portobello.
This is a trans and non-binary inclusive event; all bodies and identities welcome.
Standard Ticket £21 - (£10 will be donated by SWS to LGBT Youth Scotland)
On a low income? We have a limited amount of “Pay It Forward” sessions, please request these via hello@soulwatersauna.com
Mystika Glamoor presents BETWEEN REVOLUTIONS
Mystika Glamoor presents BETWEEN REVOLUTIONS, a theatrical cabaret show that brings to life the cult queer book “The f*ggots and their friends between revolutions”, sharing fables and wisdom on how we survive oppression through radical joy, art, and solidarity. Mystika compiles passages of the book relating to its various characters (the f*ggots, the women, the fairies, and the queens) and acts individual performances based on each of them as they try to survive and thrive under the control of the men (played by drag king extraordinaire Daddy Delight).
This is an 18+ show
Content warning: the show tackles themes of oppression, patriarchy, and sex. It uses the reclaimed slur “f*ggot” throughout.
Please note this is a ticketed event and is restricted to 40 people.
TICKET PRICES
£15 - I am comfortably able to meet all of my basic needs and have expendable income.
£10 - I am employed and have have some expendable income.
£5 - I may stress about meeting my basic needs and have no or very limited expendable income.
Pay what you can
This is an indoor event.
Access information - please note this performance will be in the Upper Hall of the Porty Town Hall which is currently only accessible via stairs (there is no lift in Porty Town Hall).
Please contact with any questions about access.
Portobello Town Hall has accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms.
Soul Water LGBTQIA+ Sauna
Porty Pride - LGBTQIA+ sauna 95mins (Sat 7 June) with SWS Portobello 95mins
1 hour 35 minutes @ £21.00
Book a seat in our welcoming and open sauna space for LGBTQIA+ people living in and around Portobello.
This is a trans and non-binary inclusive event; all bodies and identities welcome.
Standard Ticket £21 - (£10 will be donated by SWS to LGBT Youth Scotland)
On a low income? We have a limited amount of “Pay It Forward” sessions, please request these via hello@soulwatersauna.com
Protests, parades and pinkwashing: the politics of Pride, past and present and future
12:00 - 13:00
Portobello Library
