Kent’s biggest-ever Pride event is taking place this weekend with a star-studded festival to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, promote equality and prevent discrimination.

Flags will be held high, parades will make their way through the streets and entertainers will take to the stage as thousands gather for Pride Canterbury.

The event last year was held over two days, but this year's celebrations have been condensed into one full day packed with things to do from 11am until 9pm.

Here's everything you need to know...

When and where is it happening?

The day will start with a rainbow-laden march as the parade makes its way through Canterbury from 11am.

Everyone is invited to line the streets to wave flags and banners while cheering on the parade but only those who have pre-registered are able to join the procession.

It will feature local organisations and groups, plus some extra special characters to keep an eye out for.

The parade proceeds from Westgate Gardens, via Westgate Towers, along the high street, turning right at Rose Lane, across the Watling Street roundabout, and ends at the Dane John Gardens where the Pride festival takes place.

Tens of thousands of people are expected to attend the family-friendly event with a huge artist line-up across four stages.

There will also be more than 70 marketplace stalls, food and drink vendors and children's rides.

An Official Pride Canterbury After Party will then take place at Tokyo Tea Rooms from 10pm.

Who is performing at Canterbury Pride?

A host of chart-topping artists and tribute acts are scheduled to perform.

A Pride Canterbury and RuPaul's Drag Race UK legend, Baga Chipz is returning to the main stage alongside noughties pop legends Booty Luv followed by Katie Price and Tik Tok star Bailey J Mills.

Black Peppa from RuPaul's Drag Race UK is also in the lineup and there will be a special appearance by The Oompa Loompa from the Glasgow Willy Wonka Experience.

Rob Wills from kmfm will also be broadcasting live from the main stage across Kent at 7pm.

A full setlist is available on Pride Canterbury’s Twitter page.

Do you have to pay, and who can attend?

Canterbury Pride is free for all to attend however there are optional paid-for upgrades.

A Very Fabulous Person (VFP) wristband is available for £20 which grants the holder the ability to queue jump and gets them one free drink.

Extra meet and greet tickets allowing guests to meet some of the performers are also available from £10.

Those wanting to attend the official after-party event at Tokyo Tea Rooms from 10pm will need to purchase a ticket for £8.

How to get there

Dane John Gardens is located within Canterbury's city walls, just minutes from the high street and cathedral.

If coming by car, organisers recommend using one of the city's park-and-ride services, at New Dover Road, Wincheap and Sturry Road - parking there and travelling to and from the city by bus.

The Dane John Gardens is just a couple of minutes' walk from Canterbury East railway station and about 15 minutes from Canterbury West.

It is also adjacent to Canterbury Bus Station, which provides good links to the rest of Kent.

The main entrance is at the Castle Street car park, via the City Wall.

On arrival, staff will direct visitors into two queues, one for those with accessibility needs or young children, and another for all other attendees.