Leeds Pride – an unmissable event in the City’s calendar, and this year’s occasion is already something extra dazzling.
After 2024 saw a jaw-dropping 80,000 joyous folk in attendance, Leeds is gearing up for an even more mammoth event this year. With a dedicated cabaret stage, plus more performers, sequins and frivolity than you can shake a stick at, the 19th instalment of the free Festival promises to bring together an intoxicating mix of celebration, solidarity and pure unadulterated joy as we honour the LGBTQ+ community; its history, struggles and achievements to date, as well as a bright future dedicated to conversation and further connection.
The main parade will kick off its march through the streets of Leeds – starting at the Town Hall and
finishing at The Calls – on Sunday 20th July. But do not fear, revellers, Leeds Pride Weekender will of
course feature festivities throughout Saturday too, including The Viaduct Street Party and the electric
Drag Brunch Festival on Lower Briggate (think bottomless drinks and – you guessed it – non-stop drag
entertainment).
Traders and food outlets will be filling our bellies with all manner of local goodness at the Leeds Pride Marketplace; and the Viaduct Showbar (located in the iconic Freedom Quarter) will be hosting the Leeds Pride afterparty on Sunday from 8pm. Reigning supreme as the UK’s “premier fully choreographed drag cabaret venue”, it has a 15 year legacy of unparalleled success and is much-adored by locals.
You may have already spotted that, as sponsor of Leeds Pride, Victoria Leeds have unveiled a bold
and beautiful sculpture – the iconic ‘Heart to Hearts’ on Sidney Street – as part of the annual celebration
and in support of local charity Out Together, dedicated to combatting loneliness and isolation among
older LGBTQ+ people in the region.
In true Pride fashion, they hosted a sparkling, star-studded launch party spectacular (we would expect nothing less) at The Ivy in the iconic Victoria Quarter arcade to kick off the festivities on Wednesday
evening. Cue fizz, canapes, colourful entertainment and margaritas even Lupe’s Cantina would be proud
of. Ahead of the big weekend, the excitement in the air was almost tangible against the backdrop of the
stunningly restored 19th century luxury venue – a true jewel in Leeds’ historic district. As the fizz flowed and the slutdrops began, the event cemented itself as a bright and brilliant look forward to the delights Leeds Pride week has in store for us.
Through the maelstrom of neon colours, stage lights and flocking crowds, there remains a very sincere and authentic message as the fight for full equality continues. Leeds Pride 2025 aims to ignite the message that love can heal, unify and conquer all.
So, clear your calendars and dig out your most fabulous glitter ensembles (go on, we know you want to),and prepare yourselves for some top-notch entertainment, star-studded acts, non-stop laughs and a jam-packed jamboree of delicious food (and music so great even your nan would get up and dance to.)
You can discover more about the Leeds Pride schedule, events and find a full 2025 site map and
countdown on the official website: https://leedspride.com/
