Across the UK, people are organising events to celebrate Pride 2023. We’ve compiled some of the top events taking place this year, along with some options for where to stay nearby. But first, let’s explore the history of Pride.
What is Pride Month?
Pride advocates acceptance and equality, and is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. It’s also an opportunity to look back on how far LGBTQ+ rights have come and to raise awareness of issues still facing the community.
Pride parades were first organised in the US in 1970 to commemorate the Stonewall riots of June 1969, which happened after police raided the Stonewall Inn - a bar in Greenwich Village, New York. The first London event was held in 1972.
When is Pride Month UK?
While parades and parties mainly happen in June, specific dates vary, so it’s best to check the details of the event you want to attend in advance.
Brighton Pride
Brighton truly comes alive for Pride and 2023 is no exception. Preparations are well underway for the host of events happening on Saturday and Sunday, 5 and 6 August. The bright and bold Fabuloso in Preston Park has a stellar line-up across the two days: Steps, Melanie C, The Vivienne, and Black Eyed Peas are just some of the artists set to perform.
The main parade on 5 August challenges people to ‘dare to be different’; other events not to be missed include an open-air silent disco at Brighton i360 on 4 August and the community dog show. Visit the Brighton & Hove Pride website for more information.
Stay nearby: Orion | Sleeps 4
Pride in London
The Pride in London parade will take place on Saturday, 1 July. Starting at Hyde Park Corner and ending at Whitehall Place, the parade will feature 600 LGBTQ+ groups and usually attracts around 30,000 people.
There will be various stage areas to explore: Trafalgar Square will have one, along with a variety of stalls; Leicester Square is the location of the Women’s Stage; you’ll find a Cabaret Stage in Dean Street, Soho; and there will be a family area at St Giles-in-the-Field. All the details you need are here.
Stay nearby: The Warren – Windsor | Sleeps 5
Manchester Pride
This year’s Manchester Pride Festival is described as a ‘party as protest’. Organisers say: “Pride has grown exponentially in its 50+ year history as a movement for queer liberation. But the fight is far from over.”
The Gay Village Party running from Friday to Monday, 25 to 28 August features artists including Jake Shears, Bimini, Danny Beard, and Gok Wan. The parade on 26 August takes the theme of Queerly Beloved, celebrating love in all its forms. A candlelit vigil in Sackville Gardens is set to round things off.
Stay nearby: Wildhouse Farm | Sleeps 6
Pride Edinburgh
Pride Edinburgh, described as Scotland’s longest-running celebration of diversity, takes place on Saturday, 24 June. The March will head from the Scottish Parliament and finish at The Pride Edinburgh Festival Village in the EUSA Complex. For further details of what will be on offer within the village, visit the official website.
Stay nearby: The Albany | Sleeps 5
Bristol Pride
Bristol Pride has a programme of events from Saturday, 24 June to Saturday, 8 July. The fun begins with a drag queen bingo boat party on 24 June (tickets include a gin and tonic) and an LGBTQ+ Bristol history boat tour takes place on 2 July.
The parade and Pride Day on the Downs (with performers including Natalie Imbruglia, and Jake Shears) are on 8 July, with the official Pride afterparty happening at Bristol O2 Academy that evening. Check out the full programme to plan your visit.
Stay nearby: Ed’s Barn | Sleeps 4
Pride Cymru
The fantastic Cardiff Castle is the backdrop for Pride Cymru on Saturday and Sunday, 17 and 18 June. The festival offers entertainment across three stages, with acts including Sophie Ellis-Bextor, House Gospel Choir, The Feeling, and Ginny Lemon.
Saturday sees the parade through the city’s streets, an inclusive and accessible event that is open to everyone and dates back to 1985. All you need to know – including how to book tickets – is available at the Pride Cymru website.
Stay nearby: Taff Penfro Cardiff Apartment | Sleeps 6
UK Black Pride
UK Black Pride is returning to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London on Sunday, 20 August, after a triumphant 2022 event that attracted 25,000 people.
The main stage has a packed programme, from the opening ceremony at midday through to the 9pm close after DJ Biggie C’s set. Guests include Dréya Mac, Lady Phyll, Sadie Sinner, and Gok Wan. You can also visit the Wellbeing Area and the DJ tent. Keep an eye on further updates here.
Stay nearby: Ridge Cottage | Sleeps 10
Happy Pride!
This guide offers just a flavour of the many Pride events taking place this year, all of them promoting love, equality and inclusivity. Wherever you’re heading, we’ve got a place to stay for you, from apartments suitable for two, to large properties perfect for groups of friends. To read more about our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community both in our workplaces and within our communities, visit our Pride page.
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