Leeds Pride returned this weekend as the city came together to celebrate a huge milestone: 20 years of Pride in Leeds!
With thousands filling the streets for one of the UK’s most celebrated free pride events, it was a day made complete with community and colour!
Held each year in July, Leeds Pride celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, while recognising their ongoing fight for equality.
Whilst Pride is known for its exciting parades and celebrations, it remains rooted in protest and acknowledges the challenges that the LGBTQ+ community still face today.
Pride commemorates queer visibility and self-expression, whilst standing against discrimination and remembering the history of LGBTQ+ oppression and those who fought for lifechanging rights.
What makes Leeds Pride so special?
Leeds Pride celebrates and showcases everything that makes our city feel welcoming, diverse and inclusive.
As one of the UK’s largest free Pride celebrations, this year boasted approximately over 75,000 attendees.
Featuring live entertainment, standout performances from stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and music – Leeds Pride is an event like no other.
The famous Pride Parade winds through Leeds, starting in Millennium Square before making its way through the city streets. Along the route you’ll spot colourful landmarks, including the iconic rainbow-coloured Freedom Bridge, a lasting symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Your Union and University at Pride
This year, students and staff from Leeds University Union and the University of Leeds joined the parade, celebrating alongside local organisations, businesses and charities from across the city.
Several LUU student groups also took part, including Leeds Law Society and Leeds Student Radio, proudly supporting LGBTQ+ students while showcasing the vibrant student community that helps make Leeds such an inclusive city.
