Leeds Pride 2026 announces its biggest line-up yet for 20th anniversary event
Huge acts, a new ticketed affair, but the same old community spirit is expected as Leeds Pride celebrates 20 years this summer.
Celebrating its second decade, bringing together the wider community alongside championing the LGBTQIA+ one, this year’s Leeds Pride is set to be one of the most significant events in its recent history.
The landmark 20th-anniversary milestone promises to be the biggest, boldest, and most inclusive festival the city has ever seen.
The journey from 2006 to now is nothing short of remarkable; the inaugural event, then known as Leeds Gay Pride, attracted roughly 6,500 people. Fast forward to today, and the event regularly smashes records with over 75,000 visitors across the weekend and support from nearly 250 local businesses.
What makes Leeds Pride truly unique is its location. While many large-scale Pride events have migrated to isolated greenfield sites, Leeds Pride remains proudly woven into the city’s urban fabric.
This central location creates an electric atmosphere that spills out from the stages and into the local hotels, bars, and restaurants.
The festival has unveiled a program featuring more performers than ever before. Headlining the weekend’s festivities are the powerhouse vocals of La Voix and the nostalgic garage beats of Sweet Female Attitude.
They are joined by a formidable roster of talent, including RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Baga Chipz, Tomara Thomas, and Livin’ Joy ft. Luzahnn.
The entertainment isn’t limited to the musical acts; the weekend will be hosted by a charismatic team including Bradley Riches, Soraya Vivian, and legendary drag icons Mamma Bear and St Sordid Secret.
While the big names draw the crowds, organisers have emphasised a major focus on supporting emerging and local talent, ensuring the festival remains a true reflection of Yorkshire’s diverse creative community.
In a strategic move to secure the festival's future, 2026 sees the introduction of The Freedom Party; this new, ticketed Saturday event is designed to protect the longevity of Leeds Pride while offering revellers a high-energy day of specialised stage shows.
For a modest entry fee of £7.50, attendees will gain access to incredible tribute acts paying homage to the pop icons that have defined the last 20 years.
This evolution ensures that while Sunday remains free for all to attend, the festival can continue to grow in scale and production value.
Beyond the main stages, the weekend is bolstered by the iconic, vibrant parade making its procession through the city streets, a new and improved VIP area on Lower Briggate with an increased number of food vendors and market stalls, and an early start - with festivities kicking off early with the BIBIS Fundraising Ball on July 3 and the Drag Brunch Pride Special at Fibre.
Headline sponsor Jet2 returns for the third year, offering a massive perk for supporters: anyone purchasing a Leeds Pride wristband can save £100 on a Jet2holiday, alongside other exclusive offers.
As the city prepares to paint the town rainbow, the message from the organisers is clear: Pride remains as vital as ever. This 20th anniversary is a moment to look back at how far the community has come while dancing toward a future of continued inclusion and support.
Leeds Pride takes place on July 18 and 19 - for more information or to pick up The Freedom Party tickets, visit the official Leeds Pride website.