Pride and the City opens

Pride and the City opened up today in Gallerian where early arrivers could collect their wristband for the week. And of course all the information you need about where and when the many activities take place around town during Stockholm Pride is to be found here.

Johanna and Lars are looking forward to a fun-packed festival

At the information desk we found the volonteers Johanna and Lars. To our question what they don't want to miss this year, Johanna answers: I am really looking forward to going to all the workshops and I would also like to catch a film at the Queer filmfestival this weekend. Lars continues: The atmosphere, all the lovely people you get to meet and the fast pace during the festival are all things I really like.

Sandra - Pride and Confusion

Sandra Dahlén, one of the speakers at this years opening ceremony was available for interviews by the Swedish daily newspapers, all coordinated by Newsdesk, one of the festival's proud partners.

We managed to get a spot in her hectic schedule and our first question was what went through her mind when approached with the question whether she would like to speak at the opening ceremony.

- Of course I felt really honoured, but I also had mixed feelings. I mean, why would a heterosexual hold a speach? But I brushed those doubts aside quickly, because it was something I really wanted to do. She smiles, and continues:

- This year's theme is important, we need to talk about what the heterosexual society does and doesn't do to change it's norms. Where there are old rules and regulations, there is always someone preservning them.

Per on this years Pride: Sweet with a dash of sour

Last but not least we shared a few words with Per Ekström, who came to Gallerian to collect his wristband.

- I'm looking forward to the Parade, but the whole festival offers such a variety and the program is very well balanced so there's lots to do. The only downside to this year's Pride Festival is that it's the last year in Tanto. It's such a beautiful place.

Text and photo Lars B