Pride month might be over but that doesn’t mean the celebration has stopped. The UK’s unofficial most popular pride event is back for a weekend of partying and celebration in the ‘gay capital’ of England.
The history of Pride as we know it today is rooted in struggle, with the Stonewall riots in 1969 changing the lives of LGBTQ+ lives forever. Police in New York City raided a gay bar, and instead of complying with the police requests, the staff and customers fought back, sparking five days of riots. The heavy history of this event is ever present, but it is also a celebration of love and acceptance.
When most people think of Pride, they think of the main event: the parade. Taking place on Saturday 5th August the parade will start at Hove Lawns on the beachfront and will head through the city to Preston Park where the ‘We Are Fabuloso’ event will be held. The parade is free with no tickets needed (although make sure to arrive early to get a good view) and will showcase Brighton’s local LGBTQ+ businesses, emergency services, charity partners and community groups.
Preston Park will be home to Brighton & Hove Pride’s fundraiser event for The Brighton Rainbow Fund, ‘We Are Fabuloso’ featuring over 100+ LGBTQ+ and ally acts from music, cabaret, comedy, dance, and drag. Headliners include Steps, The Vivienne, Black Eyed Peas, Jax Jones and many more. Tickets for both Saturday and Sunday events are selling fast, get yours at Brighton & Hove Pride’s official website.
Pride doesn’t stop here! Pride at the Ironworks boasts a year-round cultural events calendar for LGBTQ+ voices and talent. More information is still to be announced on individual events and times are available from the official Brighton & Hove Pride website.
You can book tickets here at Brighton Pride.
We recommend these three hotels:
Closest? Preston Park - opposite Preston Park, basic amenities with restaurant and private parking
Cheapest? Amsterdam - on the seafront opposite the pier with basic amenities and a hotel bar/restaurant
Feeling Fancy? Brighton Harbour Hotel - swimming pool and spa services, with individually furnished rooms
Brighton train station has great links into London Victoria and along the south coast. Parking and roads are likely to be closed or full due to the event. Public transport is advised.
Brighton has no shortage of great restaurants, however these are likely to get super busy so make sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Pompoko is a great vegan friendly Japanese restaurant in the centre of town.
Brighton Pride has in depth accessibility information on their website.
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