The city became a sea of colour today as Leicester flew it's rainbow flag in honour of this year's Pride festival.
Around 700 people met outside Curve theatre to kick off the parade at midday, before making their way through the city centre.
The streets were lined with rainbow banners as the most flamboyant parade in Leicester's social calendar reached Victoria Park.
There, more than 8,000 revellers were entertained by drag acts, DJ's and dancers.
Soap star Kieron Richardson, who plays Ste Hay in Hollyoaks, hosted part of the event.
He said: "For one day only, everyone and anyone can be who they want to be and nobody will judge them.
"Pride is our way of showing people that we are normal like everyone else and we are just fellow human-beings.
"And it's a happy, safe environment for people, where we can all have lots of fun."
Lea Martin - stage name, Cassie Dahlink - who also hosted part of the event, said that Pride was all about the "diversity" for him.
"Life is too short to judge other people, the message from me is to 'live and let live'," he said.
"The day gives a sense of self-worth to everyone and to be honest, it shouldn't be for just one day - people should feel like this every day."
Singer Ryan Joseph was part of the line-up who helped entertained the crowd throughout the day.
He said: "Pride is a celebration and a great time for everyone to experience a fun day together.
Underneath the colourful exterior though, Ryan said there was a serious message that Pride continues to promote.
"The festival is there to support those who are struggling with coming out, or being accepted.
"The motto this year is, 'one life, one love' and that's what it's all about - as well as having one big party of course."
For Beth Gould, 17, of Sileby, it was the first time she had ever experienced the event.
She said: "I've never felt so comfortable in all of my life - being here has filled me with confidence.
"For once, I can be me and not be judged, it's great."
Mark green, 19, of Loughborough, had a face-painting and hair braiding stall with his family.
"There is such a great atmosphere," he said.
"And such a good vibe, it's nice to see everyone come together."
Mike Seach, 48, of Freeman's Meadow, said: "It's very good - it's my first year I've been to Pride and it's definitely lived up to my expectations."
Ricky Northey, 35 was at the event with his boyfriend Matthew Carey, 28, both of Leicester city centre.
"I booked the day off work especially to come and it's been amazing," said Ricky.
"It's a great chance for everyone to let their hair down and have no drama."
For Cortney Henry, 22, of Wigston, it was the fourth time he had enjoyed a day at Pride.
"The day has been so nice and the dance tent is amazing.
"We have quite a small LGBT community in Leicester and we all stick together, it's great."
Sonia Goodman, 32, of Crown Hills, Leicester, said: "It's my first time but I've always wanted to come and I'm absolutely loving it.
"The entertainment has been great, it's been a really, really nice experience."
The park was dotted with various stalls, from those selling tasty food, to the Toni & Guy pop-up hairdressers.
Billy Bates & Sons also brought a selection of their favourite fun fair rides to the park, for the whole family to enjoy.
Chairman of the Pride committee, Martyn Parker, said: "What an excellent day.
"It's the busiest we've seen it and it's so bright and colourful."
Security and Safety Operations Director and Vice Chairman of the Pride committee, Craig Thorpe, said: "It takes a group of 14 people around a year to organise this event and I don't think people realise just how much hard work goes into making it happen.
"We want people to be who they are and be proud of who they are and when you see so many people having fun, it makes it all worth it."
