Thousands set to march through Bristol for Pride Day
Bristol is set to come alive as more than 40,000 people head to this year's Pride Day celebrations on The Downs.
Kicking off the day is the return of the Pride Parade. Participants can join the free march starting at St Peter's Church in Castle Park, gathering from 10am.
Bringing together a multitude of community groups, charities, and allies, the parade is one of the biggest displays of LGBTQ+ pride in the South West.
The day's festivities will continue on The Downs with over ten hours of entertainment planned across various stages.
Headlining the Main Stage are disco greats Sister Sledge, renowned for hits like "We Are Family."
Joining them is Jason Donovan, ready to perform in the Afternoon Legend slot, alongside other notable acts including Black Box and Kelly Llorena.
The Cabaret Stage promises a diverse lineup with performances from RuPaul's Drag Race alumni Trinity the Tuck and Catrin Feelings, among others.
The Community Area remains central to the celebrations, hosting more than 50 local and national LGBTQ+ organisations such as Bristol Frontrunners and Freedom Youth Bristol.
These groups offer resources, support, and opportunities for visitors to engage with the wider community.
While festivities peak on Pride Day, the ongoing Bristol Pride festival features additional events including Pride Circus Night and the Pride Dog Show, amongst others, throughout the fortnight.
Festival visitors can peruse a bustling marketplace featuring local artisans and LGBTQ+-owned businesses, along with a range of food stalls catering to diverse palates.
An expanded drinks menu includes alcohol-free options and frozen alcoholic slushies in Margarita, Strawberry Daiquiri, and Piña Colada flavours.
Director of Bristol Pride, Daryn Carter MBE, spoke on the significance of the event:
"As we head towards Pride Day, we're incredibly excited to welcome people from across Bristol and beyond to join us. Pride is about celebration, visibility, protest, and community and this year's programme really reflects all of those things. Whether you're coming for the parade, the music, the Community Area, one of the many events taking place across the city or simply to spend time with friends and family, there is something for everyone. Bristol Pride only happens because of the support of our community and we can't wait to celebrate together once again."
Attendees can benefit from free travel on Pride Day through First Bus services and dedicated shuttle buses, ensuring ease of access to festival sites.
For more details, including stage times and schedules, visit bristolpride.co.uk to plan your participation in this prominent city celebration.