Manchester Pride was at its brightest this August bank holiday, as Pride returned with four days of music, celebration and unity.
The Gay Village was transformed into a hub of joy, where tens of thousands came together to celebrate LGBTQ+ life in true Mancunian style.
(Credit: Manchester Pride)
The Heartbeat of the City
Every corner of the Village seemed alive. Across six stages, 124 performances kept the energy high. Global superstar Nelly Furtado brought the house down with a headline set, while Olly Alexander e delivered those euphoric, singalong moments that Pride weekends are made of.
“It was nothing short of magical,” said David McGovern, Chair of the Board of Trustees of Manchester Pride.
“Seeing our community and allies come together in such a vibrant and heartfelt celebration reminds us of the strength we have when we stand united.”
But Pride isn’t just about the big stages. The weekend had plenty of quirky highlights too, none more so than Ginny Lemon’s Dog Show in Sackville Gardens.
Equal parts heart-warming and hilarious, the drag star’s canine catwalk had the crowd cheering as proud pups and their owners strutted their stuff.
It was a reminder that Pride has space for everyone — two-legged and four-legged alike.
The fashion was just as much a part of the spectacle as the music. Sequins, neon, mesh and rainbow capes turned Canal Street into a catwalk, with each look louder and more unapologetic than the last.
The party didn’t stop. DJs lit up the late-night stages with house, disco and pop anthems that kept crowds moving until the early hours.
Packed streets became outdoor dancefloors, and even when the music finally faded, the buzz of conversation and laughter carried on long into the night.
Moments That Matter
The more serious side of the weekend came through as well. The Pride Parade once again flooded the city centre with colour and solidarity.
As the celebrations wound down, the Candlelit Vigil brought a moment of stillness and reflection, with thousands gathering in Sackville Gardens to honour lives lost to HIV and to stand together against stigma.
Looking Ahead
With 2025 still fresh in memory, attention has already turned to next year. Tickets for Manchester Pride 2026 are now on sale, with first-release passes available through Skiddle.
Manchester Pride continues to be more than just a party. Each year it contributes millions to the city’s economy, supports grassroots organisations, and provides a platform for LGBTQ+ artists and communities.
A Lasting Glow
As the glitter settled and the stages fell silent, one thing was clear — Manchester Pride 2025 left its mark. It was a weekend of laughter, fashion, music, protest and pride, blending party spirit with moments of real meaning. For many, it was a chance to be seen, to be celebrated, and to belong.
And with the countdown to 2026 already underway, the city is ready to do it all over again.
