MORE than half a million viewers tuned in to the first ever digital Brighton Pride event.

The first weekend in August would normally see Brighton and Hove awash with colour as thousands of people join in with the annual parade through the city to Preston Park. Last year, 450,000 took part in the event to campaign and celebrate the LGBT community.

But due to the coronavirus pandemic, this year organisers decided to host an online festival called We Are Fabuloso, so Pride-goers could celebrate safely at home.

Hosted by comedians Zoe Lyons and Stephen Bailey, the event was streamed live on YouTube and featured performances from more than 100 artists, including Nile Rodgers and CHIC, Jess Glynne, Billy Porter, Todrick Hall and Carly Rae Jepsen.

As 2020 marks the thirtieth year since the first Brighton Pride, the online festival also featured archive footage of previous years’ Pride parades and performances on the main stage.

There were also messages from artists who were due to play at this year’s event before it was cancelled, including The Pussycat Dolls and Bananarama.

Paul Kemp, managing director of Brighton Pride CIC said: “Whilst we acknowledge that Pride this year was very different, we are really pleased that our usual visitors heeded the advice to stay home, stay safe and celebrate with us online.

“A huge thank you to everyone who tuned in over the weekend.

“Brighton and Hove Pride has always been time to come together to celebrate and embrace diversity and inclusion in our great city, and just because we were not able to meet in person doesn’t mean we can’t support and celebrate our fantastic LGBTQ+ communities.

“Looking forward seeing you all back in Brighton in 2021.”

We Are Fabuloso raised more than £13,000 for the Brighton Rainbow Fund, which distributes funds to LGBT charities and community groups in the city.

Chris Gull, Chair of The Brighton Rainbow Fund said: “What an amazing achievement for Brighton Pride to create such entertaining, provocative and informative shows, truly reflecting the essence of the Pride movement globally, and the unique atmosphere of Brighton Pride.

“This was a fundraising event, and the £13,000 raised during the live shows was just the beginning.

“Those watching over the weekend will be joined by thousands on catch up via YouTube over the next days and weeks.

“We have a simple request - this is all free, you will all see world class entertainment, you will all see why the funds raised which we distribute to LGBTQ+ and HIV groups are vital, especially this year.

“Think what you spend on Netflix, or on tickets to a concert, or drinks and food over Pride weekends, and please go the extra mile this year by donating.”

The footage from this year’s virtual event can still be viewed online, and organisers are encouraging viewers to make a donation if they can, at www.brighton-pride.org.

Watch the event at www.youtube.com/PrideTVNetwork.