Photo by Gotta Be Worth It
Manchester Pride 2025 unfolded as a powerful affirmation of LGBTQ+ unity and activism, with a resplendent array of performances ushering in the long weekend festival. Held from 15 to 25 August, the programme featured marquee events such as the Manchester Pride Parade, The Rally, Candlelit Vigil, Family Pride MCR, and Youth Pride MCR. Headliners ranged from Olly Alexander, Leigh‑Anne (formerly of Little Mix), and the legendary Billy Porter to beloved acts like Tulisa, Big Freedia, Sonique, and Louisa Johnson, complemented by drag royalty such as Jodie Harsh and cabaret sensation Danny Beard. With over 120 artists across multiple stages, including the vibrant new Mardi Gras event, the festival celebrated visibility, sound, and solidarity.
At the heart of Manchester Pride 2025 was a reaffirmation of the movement’s activist roots and a collective call for equality amid ongoing legal and social challenges. Organisers joined other major UK Pride events in suspending the participation of political parties this year, a bold gesture of solidarity with the trans community in response to a controversial Supreme Court ruling earlier this year defining “woman” strictly by biological sex. Complementing this stance were venues like the Activism Hub, where attendees were encouraged to engage with LGBTQ+ campaigns, write to MPs, and pledge their support for trans rights. Artistic platforms such as Superbia, The Rally, Family Pride MCR, and Youth Pride MCR further illustrated how Pride continues to merge protest with cultural expression, while maintaining space for all identities and ages.
Efforts around safety and inclusivity were also clearly evident. The LGBT Foundation’s Village Angels and Village Haven programmes once again bolstered nighttime support and harm reduction in the B Events such as the Candlelit Vigil, hosted each year in Sackville Gardens – home to the Beacon of Hope and National Transgender Memorial – offered emotional closure and reflection for the community, honouring lives lost to HIV/AIDS. Meanwhile, the accessibility scheme allowed one free personal assistant ticket per attendee requiring support, while reduced-capacity and diversified event formats catered to those less interested in high-energy partying. This approach ensured that Pride retained its inclusivity, shielding vulnerable members from exclusion.
Testimonials from attendees underscored the resonance of the event. One remarked how Pride in Manchester is about “acceptance in its truest form,” a sentiment echoed by many who felt “one big community… no one is left out.”
See photos and follow Manchester Pride HERE.
