Pride 2026

Pride traces back to 1969, when patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City resisted police harassment, sparking protests that became the foundation of the modern LGBTQ+ movement. The first Pride march took place the following year as both a protest and a party. What began as a brave act of visibility has since grown into a global movement, ensuring that the original message of liberation continues to reach millions across the capital.

Today, Pride events are held worldwide and continue to grow in scale and significance, celebrating LGBTQ+ communities while advocating for equality.

This year, Stonewall will be at Cardiff, Edinburgh, and London Pride, so if you see us, be sure to give us a wave. With more than 270 Pride events taking place across the UK in 2026, chances are there’s one happening near you.

While large, colourful parades are often what people associate with Pride, its importance goes far beyond that.  At a time when LGBTQ+ rights are being challenged in many parts of the world, Pride remains very important. By taking up space in the heart of the Capital, the march sends a powerful message and a call to action. Visibility, unity and equality all matter. 

This year, Pride feels more urgent than ever. It feels more intense because there is a global push back on LGBTQ+ rights generally. Trans + people especially, and their allies are increasingly worried about their rights, freedoms and protections as they continue to be demonised and dehumanised. Our hard-won rights feel more fragile than ever. 

Pride is a reminder that progress should never be taken for granted. It is a chance to stand together and continue to push for a world where every person who is Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, Queer + is living free from discrimination, prejudice and inequality.