There’s nothing quite like Pride. While Halloween might be dubbed “gay Christmas,” this global celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and community is truly unparalleled. Since 1972, jubilant supporters and activists in the UK have come together to celebrate through music, parades, club nights, and more, painting the world a little brighter and more inclusive.
The magic of Pride lies in its unpredictability; no two events are identical. For instance, Leeds Pride has secured a Chappell Roan tribute act for 2025, which is quite the treat! The genuine article, a former NME cover star, affectionately refers to herself as “your favourite artist’s favourite artist.” This choice feels like a strong second best to having the real deal herself—well done, organizers!
All across the UK, Pride 2025 promises to be just as vibrant and diverse as always, showcasing everything from metal to classical performances, pop sensations, and pulsating techno beats. Regardless of your aesthetic—be it rainbow-themed or goth chic—there’s something for everyone. Check out our top picks of the best gigs!
Pride On The Park
Preston Park, Brighton (August 2-3)
Mariah Carey is finally headlining Brighton’s Pride On The Park after having to cancel her 2020 performance due to the pandemic. Brighton Pride’s managing director Paul Kemp expressed his disappointment over the cancellation but added, “Pride is always a weekend of celebration and inclusivity, and this year will be incredibly significant.”
Indeed! Sugababes will close out the event on Sunday, joined by acts like Fatboy Slim, Ashnikko, Confidence Man, and Romy from The xx. As Mariah would say: obsessed!
Pride Rock ft. Sophie Lloyd
CHALK, Brighton (August 1)
Guitar virtuoso Sophie Lloyd gained popularity on YouTube and has evolved into a modern rock icon, with chart-topping solo albums and collaborations with Machine Gun Kelly’s band. Headlining this festival—an alternative to the more pop-focused Pride On The Park—she’ll deliver a rocking performance celebrating love.
Classical Pride 2025
Various venues, London (June 27-July 10)
Just as sexuality can be diverse, so can musical taste. Why not enjoy both with Classical Pride 2025? Curated by conductor Oliver Zeffman, this series features events across the city (including a special at LA’s Hollywood Bowl for the adventurous). London’s renowned LGBT+ choir, The Fourth Choir, will grace the historic Wigmore Hall, while the Barbican Hall will spotlight Voice of Tomorrow, showcasing emerging LGBT+ composers setting poems by queer poets to music. Don’t forget to dress to impress!
Worthing Techno Militia Presents Worthing Pride Party
Coast Cafe, Worthing (July 4)
After all that sophistication, let’s bring the party vibes with the Worthing Techno Militia, on a “mission to deliver authentic underground deep techno music to Worthing.” Wes Baggaley and DJ Bunnyhausen will shake the foundations of West Sussex with pulsating house, techno, and more. This event is part of Worthing Pride, which also features S Club 7‘s Jo O’Meara and Atomic Kitten’s Natasha Hamilton. Now that’s an event with variety!
Gladrags: Official Notts Afterparty
Rough Trade Nottingham (July 26)
Legendary Midlands LGBT+ club night Gladrags is hosting the official afterparty for Nottingham’s Pride event, featuring performances from fabulously named drag acts like Fatt Butcher and Pork Elizabeth Pie. Be sure to catch “punk horror drag superstar” Baby Lame, who once performed with the eccentric Circus of Horrors and sports a look that can best be described as “Art the Clown meets Claire’s accessories.”
The Grand’s Pride After Party
Clapham Grand, London (June 29)
Drag superstar Bimini teased “some unexpected collaborations” for the Pride afterparty, hinting at surprise guests. It’s hard to imagine a more iconic pairing than a RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star teaming up with—wait for it—Tulisa and Nadine Coyle. Incredible!
Tuesday Night Bash
Depot Mayfield, Manchester (July 5)
Not wanting Brighton to steal all the spotlight, Manchester Pride’s festival, Mardi Gras, offers an impressive lineup. If Mariah Carey is the reigning pop queen, Manchester boasts its own royalty: Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne will headline alongside former Years & Years frontman and Eurovision hopeful Olly Alexander. With additional performances from triple-threat Billy Porter and rap pioneer Big Freedia, this is shaping up to be a memorable party.
Manchester Pride will also feature a Gay Village Party—a celebration reminiscent of the best local fairs—alongside its always eye-catching parade. Overall, it promises to be a unique celebration.
Extra Events to Keep an Eye On!
Lady Gaga
The O2 Arena, London (September 29 – October 4), Co-op Live, Manchester (October 7-8)
Lady Gaga has long been a champion of the LGBTQ+ community, and her followers, affectionately known as the Little Monsters, cultivate an incredible atmosphere at her concerts. With her upcoming mega-tour titled the Mayhem Ball, expect an environment filled with love, unity, and celebration. It’s no wonder that 13% of Brits voted her their top bucket-list artist to see live, surpassing even the likes of Beyoncé, Rihanna, Bruno Mars, Bruce Springsteen, and Ariana Grande.
Billie Eilish
OVO Hydro, Glasgow (July 7-8), O2 Arena, London (July 10–17), Co-op Live, Manchester (July 19-23)
Billie Eilish has an exceptional talent for making her large-scale shows feel intimate, much like a cozy gig at your favorite local pub. As a Gen-Z superstar, she has embraced inclusivity as a core tenet of her artistry, and her song “Lunch” has become a modern LGBTQ+ anthem, making her an ideal artist to celebrate Pride 2025 with.
Lana Del Rey
Principality Stadium, Cardiff (June 23), Hampden Stadium, Glasgow (June 26), Anfield Stadium, Liverpool (June 28), Wembley Stadium, London (July 3-4)
By the time she explored queer themes in her hit “Doin’ Time,” Lana had solidified her status as an LGBTQ+ icon. Her music, characterized by various personas, celebrates self-discovery and acceptance. At a Lana Del Rey concert, you can be whoever you want and find your community. If you’re just now looking for tickets, act quickly—Lana is ranked among the top-selling female artists globally for 2023 according to viagogo.
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