Eco-glitter at the ready as London is set to break all records when Pride hits it this week.
Returning for its 53rd edition on Saturday, 5th July 2025. The much-anticipated event, which starts at noon, is projected to round up around one and a half million spectators, potentially setting a new record for attendance. Over 35,000 marchers, including LGBTQ+ activists, community groups, representatives from the police and armed forces, will parade from Hyde Park Corner, down through iconic locations such as Piccadilly Circus and Haymarket, before concluding at Whitehall Place. This year’s parade carries a production cost estimated at £1.7 million.
The route, unchanged from the previous year, culminates with a rally and main stage event at Trafalgar Square, where speeches by leading activists and community figures are scheduled. Notably, although political attendance is restricted this year, Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London [pictured at the march in 2023], will lead the procession in his civic capacity, underscoring the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Mayor Khan emphasised the importance of Pride, calling it a ‘march of solidarity and celebration’ that epitomises London’s reputation as a global beacon of LGBTQ+ inclusion and rights advocacy.
The event’s entertainment programme is diverse with over 100 performers across five stages scattered throughout central London. At its heart is the headline performance from Chaka Khan, the ten-time Grammy Award-winning Queen of Funk, famed for anthems like I’m Every Woman and Ain’t Nobody. Other performers include RuPaul’s Drag Race star La Voix, Austria’s Eurovision champion JJ, and Frankie Grande.
In addition to the daytime celebrations, Pride in London offers two major after parties. The official celebration at One Ninetyfour on Piccadilly welcomes adults aged 18 and over, promising a pulsating night of pop, dance, and club anthems spun by DJs Kaspa, Joel Mignot, and Ryan Lanji. Meanwhile, Clapham Grand’s after party features pop star Tulisa alongside special guest Bimini, with proceeds supporting the LGBTQ+ charity Not A Phase, providing an avenue for continued communal celebration into the early hours.
Pride in London’s roots trace back to 1972, shortly after the landmark Stonewall riots, starting modestly with 200 participants. Since then, it has evolved through periods of political activism and cultural carnival, enduring challenges including financial insolvency in the late 1990s. Today, under the auspices of a dedicated charity, it stands as one of the largest Pride festivals globally, emblematic of the progress and ongoing struggles of the LGBTQ+ community.
Travel and accessibility remain critical considerations for attendees. Given the expected crowds, public transport in central London will be heavily impacted, with specific tube stations recommended for participants and spectators alike, including Marble Arch, Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, and Waterloo. Road closures will affect bus routes and vehicular access, with detailed advice provided by Transport for London to mitigate disruption. Accessible facilities and transport options are also thoughtfully integrated to ensure the event remains inclusive for all, with accessible parking at Q-Park Chinatown and safe spaces near designated stations.
Beyond the parade and performances, Pride in London 2025 extends its reach with multiple event spaces catering to diverse community facets: from the LGBTQI, Women and Non-Binary Stage at Leicester Square to Trans and Non-Binary events at Soho Square run by JAKE friend Mz. Kimberley, alongside a family-friendly area at Victoria Embankment Gardens.
And of course, for those of you who need a little respite, a top-up, a nice toilet and a sit down that isn’t on a kerb, remember we are taking over Joshua’s Tavern at The Londoner, just north of Trafalgar Square, almost on Leicester Square from 1pm. Tickets from jakeldn.com
Source: Noah Wire Services
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