No corporate sponsorship at this year's Belfast Pride

When the Belfast Pride parade makes its way through the city's streets on Saturday, one thing will be different from previous years.

There will be no corporate sponsors.

Where in previous parades, onlookers would have seen business names in the programme, on promotional materials and on stage at Custom House Square, this year the only financial support will come from public funders.

The 10-day Belfast Pride festival began last Friday with a programme of cultural events, nights out and discussions.

On the decision not to accept corporate sponsorship at this year's event, a spokesperson said "as with any support received, Belfast Pride has sought to ensure that partnerships align with the delivery of the festival and its charitable and community objectives".

The festival is in its 35th year and the theme this year is Love in Every Colour.

Belfast Pride festival says the theme "recognises the courage of those individuals who came before us and the rising voices of those today who work tirelessly to protect our future and our beautiful community".

The Pride parade will depart from Custom House Square at 13:00 BST and finish at Victoria Street.

It will make its way along High Street, Bridge Street, Waring Street, Donegall Street, Royal Avenue, Donegall Place, Donegall Square North, Chichester Street, Victoria Street and Anne Street.

The parade is due to conclude at about 16:00.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is encouraging everyone attending the event to do so safely.

It is advising road users that there will be traffic restrictions in the city centre for a number of hours.

People are being asked to plan their journeys in advance and, if travelling to the event, to park legally and not to obstruct access to any residential or business properties.

As part of the Belfast Pride festival, an event is being held in Custom House Square from midday with local LGBTQIA+ performers and entertainment taking to the stage.

Donegall Quay will be home to the Belfast Pride village, which will have a range of stalls hosted by community groups, a family fun area, live children's entertainment, a picnic area and an alcohol, smoke and vape-free zone.