Southampton is preparing to host one of its most anticipated events of the year as Southampton Pride 2025 returns for a two-day celebration over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, from Saturday, 23 August to Sunday, 24 August.

Now in its second year as a weekend-long festival, this year’s Pride promises to be bigger, bolder, and more inclusive than ever, with a packed programme of events, performances, and community activities designed to celebrate LGBTQ+ identity, history, and solidarity.

The centrepiece of the weekend is the #SOProud Pride March, beginning at 11am on Saturday, 23 August from Queens Park. The march will pass through the city centre, including a photo stop at the historic Bargate, before culminating in Guildhall Square, where the main stage and festivities await.

Local activists are keen to remind attendees that Pride is not just a party - it’s a protest, a platform, and a powerful act of visibility.

Danny Langrish-Beard, one of the founding organisers of Southampton Pride, shared his thoughts in a recent interview:

“Pride is a celebration, yes, but it’s also a protest. We still live in a world where LGBTQ+ people face discrimination, violence, and exclusion. Southampton Pride is about standing up, being seen, and demanding better for our community”.

Amira Khan, a youth worker and LGBTQ+ advocate from Southampton, added:

“For many young people, Pride is the first time they feel truly accepted. It’s a space where they can be themselves without fear. That’s why it’s so important we keep Pride accessible, inclusive, and rooted in activism.”

The weekend will feature a diverse line-up of performers, including drag artists, musicians, and spoken word poets. Community stalls, food vendors, and wellness zones will offer something for everyone. Sunday’s events will focus on connection and reflection, with quieter spaces and workshops aimed at fostering dialogue and support.

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Graham Robson
Graham Robson

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