There's a full programme of events building up to this weekend's pride parade.
The Laois Pride Festival is being described as 'A labour of love' by the Midlands LGBT+ Project.
Clothes swapping, a board games night and an upcycling fashion workshop by Tullamore drag queen Jackie O all lead up to the big pride parade on Saturday at midday in Fitzmaurice Square in Portlaoise.
A writing competition also returns this year, launched in memory of student journalist Joe Drennan who was tragically killed in a hit and run in Limerick in 2023.
The winning author will read their work on stage following Saturday's parade and have their work published locally.
Sam Kelly, Community Development Worker of the Midlands LGBT+ Project says it's a passion project for the team:
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