Expect rainbow flags, music, celebration and solidarity because June is LGBT+ Pride month around the world.
Events will be taking place across the UK over the next few weeks – but with an ever-growing commercial presence and big name headliners, some are a little on the pricey side this year.
Thankfully, there are still plenty of events scheduled that are free (or relatively cheap). Here are six we’re looking forward to:
Cambridge Pride, 8 June
The first ever Cambridge Pride will take place this year, and it’s free to attend. Don’t miss the UK’s first Pride river parade, which will see decorated punts loop up and down the river between Quayside in central Cambridge and Jesus Green from 11am to 12pm. Expect an afternoon of local entertainment, from drag artists to yoga sessions and 'The Great British Queer Bake Off.’
[Read More: We’ve always been here, there’ll always be queers, so isn’t it about time society got used to it?]
York Pride, 8 June
The York Pride parade leaves from outside York Minster (Duncombe Place) at around 11.45am on 8 June and arrives at the Knavesmire (Tadcaster Road) at 1pm. Nineties babies will be pleased to hear the headliner at the free event is none other than Gareth Gates. Food and drinks stalls will be open in abundance, but the organisers say you’re welcome to bring your own food if you’re saving the pennies.
Pride In London 10K, 9 June
The first Pride in London 10K will take place this month to raise money for the Pride in London festival and parade, which costs around £1 million to run every year, but is currently free to attend. The organisers want to ensure the event remains accessible to everyone, but they rely on donations to do so. The joyful race will be open to all abilities and costs £18 to sign up. Runners are also encouraged to collect sponsorship. (You’ll have to wait until July for the main festival.)
Essex Pride Dog Show, 15 June
Essex Pride takes place in Central Park Chelmsford on 15 June – and we love that it’s running the Essex Pride Dog Show. Categories include “the dog the judge would most like to take home” and “the sit and stay sausage challenge”. A suggested donation of £1 is recommended if you want to enter your doggo in the show. There will also be the usual parade, plus food and drink stalls. Sadly, this one’s not free – but tickets start at just £12.50 for adults, with family and youth discounts available.
[Read More: How Pride and big business should work together]
Pride Edinburgh, 22 June
Pride Edinburgh is Scotland’s national LGBT+ festival, and they’ve recently announced Tulisa (another throwback star) will be headlining this year’s event. Other acts include Caitlyn Vanbeck, Sam Callahan, and Mary Mac. The theme is #ThisIsMe – “a celebration of what makes you, you!” And yep, it’s free. Find out what other acts will be performing on the event website here.
Salford’s Pink Picnic, 22 June
Fancy something a little more low-key? Salford’s celebratory Pink Picnic is free to attend and will run from 1pm-8pm on 22 June. Expect a main stage with entertainment, face painting, market stalls and kids’ fun. Donations are welcomed at the entrance gate to help keep the event running for all families. Alternatively, VIP tent tickets (which include drinks, food and more) cost a reasonable £20.