This February, Richmond Council is hosting a free Pink Proms event for locals to explore LGBTQIA+ literature at our libraries and connect with nature through an inclusive local growing group. 

Themed around activism and social change, this year's LGBT+ History Month highlights LGBT+ people's achievements throughout history, in all areas of life.

There are a variety of ways you can get involved in the celebrations locally.

Pink Proms

Pink Proms will be on in Clarendon Hall in York House in Twickenham (Image via Google Maps)

This year, the annual Pink Proms is marking its 10th anniversary.

 The free event, which starts at 6.30pm in York House's Clarendon Hall on 22 February,  is hosted by The Richmond and Wandsworth LGBT Equality and Ally Group, in aid of charity The Food Chain. 

Featuring actor, writer and composer Nathan Taylor alongside the London Gay Symphonic Winds Orchestra, the evening promises a wonderful array of music and entertainment.

Book your Pink Proms ticket here.

LGBTQIA+ book displays

Teddington Library will have a display of LGBTQIA+ books for you to browse this month (Credit: Tilly O'Brien)

Reading is one of the best ways to learn about inclusivity and LGBTQIA+ issues.

This month, Richmond borough's libraries are displaying a great range of LGBTQIA+ reads.

The libraries' collections range from fiction and non-fiction to young adult novels, and more.

You can browse the books in any of Richmond borough's libraries or explore them online via Borrowbox, eLibrary or LibraryPass.

LGBTQ+ growing group sessions                                                                                      

Local charity Barnes Common Limited's LGBTQ+ Growing Group is a safe, welcoming and inclusive space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families to grow and learn together.

It's part of the Vine Road Community Growing Project, which grows organic fruit and vegetables for the local community. 

Locals of all abilities and energy levels are invited to join in at these free sessions.

From sowing seeds to pruning plants, group members can get involved in all aspects of growing, regardless of experience.

February is the perfect time to get started with growing, as the first seeds of the year are sown.

What's more, you will have the opportunity to try some of the tasty, organic produce grown by the group.

The sessions are free to attend, but space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot now here.

This group runs regularly every third Saturday of the month, including 15 February, from 1pm – 2.30pm at Vine Road Pavillion in Barnes.

The project aims to encourage people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to grow food together, inspiring engagement, participation and ownership by the whole community and helping reduce social isolation, build wellbeing and strengthen community cohesion and resilience.

Find out more about the Vine Road Community Growing Project here.