Fire twirlers, drag queens and stilt walkers lit up Civic Park on Friday night for the launch of Newcastle Pride 2022.
While the festival kicked off last week, Friday's event marked the official opening of the annual LGBTQIA+ celebration.
The progress flag was raised to begin the event, which was followed by performances, music and amusement activities.
There were plenty of bright colours, with attendees encouraged to don rainbow garments and camp costumes.
The festival runs through to November, with various events in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.
Newcastle Pride was established in 2018 as an inclusive organisation to celebrate sexuality and gender diversity in Newcastle and the Hunter.
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