Pride in London 2024 (more commonly known as London Pride), the yearly event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, is almost upon us.
The event promotes the LGBTQ+ values of visibility, unity and equality and encourages “LGBTQ+ people to express themselves creatively and celebrate their identity”.
More than 1.5 million people flocked to London for last year’s event on July 1.
The day featured headline performances from Adam Lambert, Idina Menzel and Todrick Hall. Other stars such as Eden Hunter, Rita Ora and Jack Hawitt also performed.
Pride in London 2023 launched its Never March Alone campaign, emphasising the importance of supporting the trans+ community.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “Our capital’s Pride celebrations were a huge success and I can’t wait to see what the Pride in London team have planned for 2024. Our city has many thriving and vibrant LGBTQI+ communities and it’s vital that we celebrate this diversity, while continuing to champion LGBTQI+ rights through events like Pride.
“The march of solidarity and celebration is one of the reasons that London is renowned across the globe as a beacon of inclusion and diversity and, by continuing to work together, will help us to build a better London for all.”
So when is this year’s event and how can you take part?
What is London Pride 2024?
Pride in London celebrates the capital’s LGBT+ lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans + community with a programme of events that showcases LGBT+ culture. Events involve theatre, dance, art, cinema, parties and other activities.
More than 300 floats travel through London annually.
Soho hosts parties and events in the evening, with pubs, bars and clubs throughout the city doing likewise.
First held on July 1, 1972, it is one of the UK’s longest-running and largest pride festivals.
Organiser Pride in London describes itself as “a vibrant and dynamic organisation that relies on the passion and commitment of both staff and volunteers who share a common goal of advancing equality and diversity”.
It says on its website: As a non-profit organisation, any surplus funds we generate are reinvested back into the LGBTQ+ community, to support initiatives and campaigns that aim to promote greater inclusivity and acceptance.”
When is London Pride 2024?
London’s 2024 Pride parade will take place between 12pm and 6pm on Saturday, June 29.
It runs from Hyde Park Corner, through Piccadilly Circus, down Haymarket and along Pall Mall to Trafalgar Square, culminating at Whitehall Place.
“I am thrilled that we are able to announce the highly anticipated date for Pride in London 2024,” Christopher Joell-Deshields, CEO of Pride in London, said.
“Following a momentous display of trans allyship with our 2023 campaign and the recent parade, we are excited to continue fostering unity and advocating for equality across the capital. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to our sponsors, artists, parade participants, LGBT+ communities, and our exceptional volunteers for being an integral part of Pride in London.”
How to attend London Pride 2024
You can apply to be part of the parade here.
Grandstand tickets can be purchased here.
You can also apply to be a volunteer here.
Otherwise, you can simply turn up and watch the colourful festivities.
Visit the official website here for more information about the event.
