Hundreds of pride goers gathered for the city’s annual Southampton Pride event, joining others from the LGBTQIA+ community. One of the day’s most striking moments unfolded in front of the historic Bargate, where volunteers and organisers painted a giant LGBTQIA+ flag, that they describe as a symbol of pride, inclusion, and diversity—onto the pavements of the city centre.
The Pride flag, often called the rainbow flag, represents the full spectrum of human sexuality and gender identity, with its six coloured stripes—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet—standing as a beacon of acceptance and hope for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and countless other identities. Its presence at the heart of Southampton today sent a powerful message of solidarity and belonging. Celebration goers could be seen with placards including ‘Protect our trans kids’, ‘Proud to be trans’, ‘Unite and Fight for LGBTQ+ rights, fight for socialism’.
Since its launch the event has grown every year: “Drawing thousands from the outset, it offered a vibrant and affirming space for Southampton’s LGBTQ+ community and allies to come together and celebrate diversity. From intimate beginnings to a fully-fledged annual festival featuring parades, live music, and community stalls, it has become one of the South Coast’s standout Pride events. Southampton Pride is a symbol of remembrance, resilience, and continued advocacy, honouring the struggles of the past while championing progress for future generations.”
This year’s festivities, sponsored by Southampton City Council, Solent University, P&O Cruises, Cunard Cruises, University of Southampton, Southampton FC, Network Rail, South West Trains, Go Southampton, and the Mayflower Theatre, promise a packed weekend. The event features a city-centre parade, live music, energetic performances, advocacy stalls, and a family-friendly area, all centred around Guildhall Square. Entry remains free and unticketed, with the main stage hosting a full day of entertainment across both Saturday and Sunday.
Actor and LGBTQ+ advocate Bradley Riches, best known for his role in Heartstopper, is set to host the weekend, adding star power to a line-up that aims to uplift and entertain. For younger attendees, the newly expanded Youth Zone brings inclusive fun to the festival, with Drag Queen Story Hour UK, Superstars Dance School, Jiggy Wrigglers, and Ever After Princess Parties all performing and running activities throughout the day.
The mission of Southampton Pride remains firmly focused on advocacy and inclusion. “Southampton Pride exists to celebrate and advocate for the rights, visibility, and inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ community. We aim to create a safe, vibrant, and supportive environment where diversity is embraced and everyone feels free to be themselves,” says the organisation. “Through events, education, and community engagement, we work to promote acceptance, challenge discrimination, and uplift all voices – ensuring that love and equality thrive across our city and beyond.”
What do you think about the Southampton Pride festival taking place in Southampton City Centre?
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