The celebration has also launched their first ever Mardi Gras
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY MANCHESTER PRIDE
As the sun starts to shine over the UK, there’s only one thing on our mind – Pride. Rainbow flags flying high, glitter for all the world to see, and hopefully a minimal amount of sunburn procured. One of the UK’s most beloved Prides takes place in Manchester every year, and in 2025 they’re ready to celebrate Love.
Running in August this year, Manchester Pride has announced that they will be honouring the transformative power of love at their iconic Parade which will take place on Saturday 23 August. At a time when the world feels incredibly divided, this powerful statement is a reminder to stay strong as a community.
In addition to the Parade, Manchester Pride will also be running their first ever Mardi Gras, taking place at Depot Mayfield across the 23-24 August. With an extravaganza of live performances, spectacular light shows, and a variety of food and drink offerings, this new event is bringing even more excitement to the city.
Of course, Manchester Pride would not be complete without their annual Gay Village Party, running from Friday 22 to Monday 25 August. There will also be a number of events for LGBTQIA people of all walks of life, including Family Pride MCR and Youth Pride MCR.
The first general release tickets for the Mardi Gras and the Gay Village Party, both with VIP options, will go on sale Tuesday 18 March with early access on Monday 17 March to those who have registered for pre-sale.
Speaking about this year’s event, Mark Fletcher, CEO of Manchester Pride, said: “Love is the antidote to the hate and discrimination that many LGBTQIA people still face today. This year, we’re celebrating love as a catalyst to challenge the political and social systems that continue to oppress LGBTQ+ communities. By taking part in the celebrations, participants will stand up against injustice and send a clear message of visibility and support to LGBTQ+ communities everywhere. At Manchester Pride, love will always be at the forefront, as we unite to build a future where everyone is free to love and live authentically.”
Here is a full list of the events taking place at this year’s Manchester Pride:
Superbia
15–25 August
Superbia, Manchester Pride’s arts and culture programme, offers a culturally rich alternative to other elements of the festival, creating space for all, with a series of events and premiers of new work from LGBTQIA creatives.
The Rally
Friday 22 August
A protest against discrimination and prejudice, with inspiring speeches and performances from queer activists.
Gay Village Party
22–25 August
A space for LGBTQIA people and their allies to come together, the Gay Village Party is the heart of the festival and a real celebration of LGBTQIA life. The four-day street party will see a whole host of performances across two stages – The Alan Turing Stage and Indoor Arena.
Mardi Gras
23–24 August
Brand new for 2025, Mardi Gras will be a two-day event taking place at Depot Mayfield. Attendees will enjoy an extravaganza of live performances, spectacular light shows, and a variety of food and drink offerings taking over Depot Mayfield, Freight Island and Mayfield Park.
Manchester Pride Parade
Saturday 23 August
The city’s biggest parade will be returning to the streets of Manchester city centre with the LGBTQIA community and its allies marching for equality in front of thousands of spectators. With love as the theme, the 2025 parade will be a visual display for the shared dream of a more inclusive and accepting world. Register for the Parade here.
Family Pride MCR
Saturday 23 August
It’s never too soon – or young – to start celebrating pride. Family Pride MCR provides a safe and inclusive space for people of all ages to enjoy Pride celebrations, with a special programme of events designed for little ones.
Candlelit Vigil
Monday 25 August
The Candlelit Vigil is the culmination of Manchester Pride hosted in partnership with George House Trust, on the closing day of Pride in Sackville Gardens. During the Vigil, the gardens are transformed into a sea of flickering candles to remember and honour those who lost to HIV and those who have been persecuted in the LGBTQIA community, both here in the UK and around the world.
Youth Pride MCR
Date TBC
Youth Pride MCR is a free event specially curated in collaboration with The Proud Trust and AKT for those aged 14-18. Manchester Pride is the only UK Pride event to have a dedicated space for young people.
As part of the accessibility scheme, Manchester Pride offers one free personal assistant per ticket holder. Details can be found on the accessibility section of the Manchester Pride website.
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