Bristol Pride Festival 2022 is happening, and it's set to be one of the biggest and best yet.
Organisers have today (February 3) confirmed the festival is returning to its 'original format' this year, with an exciting programme of events spanned over two weeks.
Pride Day will see performances from 'some of the biggest names in live music,' while members and supporters of Bristol's LGBTQ+ community will take to the streets for the iconic Pride march.
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The event will take place in person this year after the 2020 event was cancelled, and the 2021 one downscaled because of Covid.
This year's festival will see events take place in venues across Bristol from Saturday, June 25 to Sunday, July 10.
It will be even more special as this year marks the 50th anniversary of the first Pride march in the UK.
Pride Day will take place on Saturday July 9, and will return to The Downs after a two-year absence.
Organisers say the event will feature multiple stages and will attract some of the biggest names in live music and entertainment.
It's also set to showcase new and emerging talent including performances from local artists and community groups.
The full line-up is expected to be released over the coming months.
Eve Russell, Bristol Pride Festival Director, said: “We are so excited to be working on delivering this year’s festival in person again and to be able to bring everyone back together to celebrate. The Pride Parade March will also make a physical return this year, louder and prouder than ever as we mark the 50th anniversary of the first pride march in the UK.
"The march is an integral part of what pride is and after two years of quiet streets, we’re excited to be filling the city with colour. It is a chance to be visible and, importantly, it serves as a reminder that the LGBT+ community continues to fight for equality.”
Other events over the two week festival include Pride Night after-parties, the Dog Show, Comedy Night, Circus Night and the Queer Vision Film Festival.
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Organisers are encouraging attendees to purchase a Supporter Wristband. Priced from £7, they enable future events like Pride Day to remain accessible to those who may not be able to afford to attend an exclusively ticketed event.
Wristbands are on sale now and include various offers including free bus travel on Pride Day, within the Bristol Zone, with First Bus and discounts at onsite bars.
Daryn Carter MBE, Director of Programming and Partnerships, said: “The whole team are so excited to be working on our 2022 festival which will see our biggest ever line up as we return to The Downs for Pride Day. As well as the incredible events we are known for delivering across the two weeks of Pride, we have also been working behind the scenes over the last few months to commission exciting new works to showcase during the Festival.
"I know that after being disconnected for so long it’s going to be very special to have everyone back together and share the love and support of our incredible community through our events and as we all take to the streets for the Parade March.”
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