Brighton Bear Weekend 2025: Hugs, Honey, and Heartfelt Vibes
If you’ve never been lovingly encouraged to dip yourself in honey and throw yourself to the bears, then you, my friend, have never been to Brighton Bear Weekend.
I had the joy of attending this year’s sun-drenched celebration as Scene Magazine’s roving reporter, and trust me—it wasn’t just hot because of the weather. Dorset Gardens was sizzling with love, laughter, body positivity, and enough SPF 50 to protect half of Brighton.
The bear community, as many attendees reminded me, is all about big-hearted energy (and big hugs). It’s a space where everyone—no matter your shape, age, or whether you're fluffy inside or out—is welcome. In a world still too obsessed with image, the bears offer a counterculture of cuddle power, where kindness reigns and judgments melt in the heat.
And the community spirit? Off the charts. One festivalgoer summed it up perfectly: “It’s not as body-conscious or judgmental as a lot of the gay world can be. It’s a really close-knit, very supportive group.” Another suggested we go for the Guinness World Record for the biggest bear hug. Honestly? Let’s make it happen.
But the weekend wasn’t just about feel-good vibes and excellent tank tops. I got to speak with some truly inspiring folks who are making serious moves in Brighton’s LGBTQ+ scene.
Watch our full coverage here:
Interview hosted by Liran Notik, Videographer: Jessica Bainbridge
First up: Sarah Savage, the unstoppable force behind Trans Pride Brighton. Not only is she a fierce advocate and community leader, but she’s also a children’s author and a champion for trans visibility in the UK. You can follow her work (and fabulous life) at @ohsarahsavage. If anyone deserves a sash that reads Queen of Inclusivity, it’s her.
Then there’s Glenn Scott of DEN Loungewear, Brighton’s cosiest queer-owned fashion brand. With 20 years in menswear and a vision to make comfort cool (and inclusive), Glenn’s turning loungewear into a lifestyle. Check them out at denloungewear.com—your future Sunday mornings will thank you.
Darren, representing Brighton & Hove Frontrunners, proved that queers really can run. What started for him as a lockdown hobby has turned into a marathon habit, supported by a running club that celebrates every pace, every body, and every mile. His story might just make you dust off those sneakers—or at least cheer from the sidelines. The club’s community vibes are as strong as their cardio.
If you wish to join a running group, it's never too late: https://www.bhfrontrunners.org.uk/
Of course, no queer community roundup would be complete without Terrence Higgins Trust. I caught up with Ross, who’s often spotted at local venues offering free rapid HIV and STI testing, and dishing out health advice with a side of sass. Their Instagram @thtbrightonandhove is a must-follow for updates, events, and the kind of frank info we all need.
And finally, I met Robert J. Brown, a voice of calm in the festival buzz, sharing insights from Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism. It’s not every day you talk spiritual enlightenment in the middle of a bear weekend, but Robert reminded me that chanting “Nam Myoho Renge Kyo” fits just as well in Dorset Gardens as it does in a temple. You can explore more at sgi-uk.org, and who knows? Your path to peace might just start with a hug.
Brighton Bear Weekend wasn’t just about sunshine and furry friendliness—it was a celebration of community in all its glorious, inclusive, non-judgmental forms. In a world that still pushes us to fit molds, this weekend was a bold reminder that you already fit, just as you are.
See you next year, bears. I’ll bring the honey.
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