Joining them will be chart-topping acts Tulisa, Big Freedia, Tayce, Sonique, and Louisa Johnson. The lineup includes internationally acclaimed drag queen, DJ, and music producer Jodie Harsh, along with multi-award-winning cabaret artist Danny Beard, who will present The Danny Beard Show.
In addition, Manchester Pride has partnered with community collectives to commission several immersive shows. After its resounding success at Factory International last June, House of MCR will return with its distinctive performance that combines dance, singing, lip-syncing, and fashion. Kulture Cabaret, presented by Lucky Roy Singh, will also take the stage, celebrating queer South Asian and Middle Eastern performers.
The performers are part of the inaugural lineup for the brand-new Mardi Gras event, which aims to be one of the most diverse by better representing marginalised communities, including trans, non-binary, and queer local talent. Mardi Gras will be held at Depot Mayfield and Freight Island on Saturday, 23 August, and Sunday, 24 August.
The Gay Village Party will return from Friday, 22 August, to Monday, 25 August. It will feature performances by Samantha Mumba, B*Witched, and Sister Sledge with Kathy Sledge.
Performances at the Gay Village will occur on the Alan Turing Stage and the Indoor Arena. Audiences will also have access to an exciting funfair, market stalls, and pop-up food vendors.
Mark Fletcher, CEO at Manchester Pride, told QX:
“Manchester Pride is the city’s celebration of LGBTQ+ life and culture, and each year we’re challenged to respond to the many needs of our communities.
“Working closely with LGBTQ+ groups and collectives from Greater Manchester we’ve been able to respond to the needs of our communities in presenting a queer focussed, intentional line up of performers who will elevate and lend their support to the rich bed of LGBTQ+ performers that this city has to offer.
“With the introduction of the new Mardi Gras event we needed to make sure that we stayed true to what Pride is about in this city. Our communities were clear that they wanted to see LGBTQ+ performers front and centre and we’re thrilled to announce a line up which serves.
“With so many stages available across the two live music based events we’re confident that there’s something for everyone; whether that be multi platinum selling pop artists, drag queen royalty or ballroom fierceness that you can expect to see at the special House of MCR Show.”
I want to perform
Manchester Pride has an open call offering local artists of all experience levels the chance to perform on its stages. For applications, visit manchesterpride.com/perform.
Every year, the festival lineup provides a global platform to elevate the rich, diverse spectrum of LGBTQ+ talent in Greater Manchester and offers LGBTQ+ communities multiple ways to celebrate their identities.
While Mardi Gras and the Gay Village Party are expected to be a big part of the festival, there will be a longer ten-day event running from Friday 15 through to Monday 25 August.
The Manchester Pride programme includes:
Superbia 15 – 25 August
Superbia, part of Manchester Pride’s arts and culture program, provides a culturally rich alternative to other festival elements. It creates inclusive spaces through events and premieres featuring new works from LGBTQ+ creatives.
The Rally 22 August
A protest against discrimination and prejudice, with inspiring speeches and performances from queer activists.
Gay Village Party 22 – 25 August
The Gay Village Party is a vibrant celebration for LGBTQ+ individuals and our allies. Serving as the heart of the festival, this four-day street party features a variety of performances across two main stages: the Alan Turing Stage and the Indoor Arena. Attendees can look forward to exhilarating performances from LGBTQ+ artists, world-class DJs, a silent disco, and funfair rides. Please note that tickets are required to access the performances at the Gay Village Party.
Mardi Gras 23 – 24 August 2025
Brand new for 2025, Mardi Gras will be a two-day event at Depot Mayfield. Attendees will enjoy an extravaganza of live performances, spectacular light shows, and a variety of food and drink offerings, taking over Depot Mayfield, Freight Island, and Mayfield Park.
Manchester Pride Parade 23 August
The parade is returning to the streets of Manchester city centre, as the LGBTQ+ community and our allies march for equality. This annual event serves as a powerful demonstration of unity and resilience, highlighting the ongoing struggle for equality in front of thousands of people. With “love” as its theme, the 2025 parade will visually represent our shared dream of a more inclusive and accepting world. Register for the parade here.
Family Pride MCR 23 August 2025
You’re never too young to start celebrating Pride. Family Pride MCR provides a safe and inclusive environment for all ages to participate in Pride festivities, featuring a special program of events designed specifically for young children.
Candlelit Vigil 25 August
The Candlelit Vigil is hosted in partnership with George House Trust, on the closing day of Pride in Sackville Gardens. This site is the home of the Alan Turing Memorial, the Beacon of Hope and The National Transgender Memorial. During the Vigil, the gardens are transformed into a sea of flickering candles to honour and remember those who have lost their lives to HIV, as well as those who have been persecuted in the LGBTQ+ community, both in the UK and around the world.
Youth Pride MCR Date TBC
Youth Pride MCR is a free event organised in collaboration with The Proud Trust and AKT, specifically for individuals aged 14 to 18. This event is a supportive and safe environment for young people to celebrate Pride in a way that is tailored to them, combining elements of fashion, music, art, performance, and creativity. Manchester Pride is unique in being the only Pride event in the UK with a dedicated space for young people.
What’s free and what has to be paid for?
Many events at the Manchester Pride Festival 2025 are free, but tickets are required for both the Mardi Gras and the Gay Village Party. Funds from ticket sales will help ensure safe citywide celebrations throughout Manchester Pride.
The Manchester Pride Accessibility Scheme
Manchester Pride allows one free personal assistant per ticket holder. The accessibility section of the Manchester Pride website provides more information.
Visit www.manchesterpride.com/tickets to see full details of each event, register for tickets, and be added to the mailing list for updates about Manchester Pride.
