Transgender festival Sparkle kicks off in Manchester, UK

The seventh annual transgender festival known as Sparkle kicked off today in Manchester, UK. From the site: Sparkle is a celebration of all things transgender, from workshops and talks to parties, meals and fun, it is a weekend festival promoting the positive and at the same time providing support, help and friendship for those who need it. This year we plan to build on the success of 2010, with even more stalls and stands in the park for the Saturday afternoon festivities. The main stage is back too, with a great line-up of TG talent and of course the fun Tranny of the Year as well. Saturday night sees our second Sparkle Ball with live entertainment and food. From Pink News: The national transgender festival, Sparkle, has begun in Manchester. The festival, now in its seventh year, is the biggest event on the trans calendar and is billed as a “celebration of gender diversity”. Tonight’s schedule includes a launch party at AXM, a banquet meal and a comedy evening. The main event, to be held in Sackville Gardens tomorrow, will be ‘Sparkle in the Park’, with stalls and performances. Equalities minister Lynne Featherstone will open the event with a speech at 1pm. On Sunday, visitors can enjoy a lunch, church service, closing meal and a workshop on the government’s Transgender Action Plan. For more info]]>