Words by Rachel June

Brighton Pride 2025 returned in its full glory, transforming the city into a three-day celebration of music, love, protest, and unforgettable moments. Across Brighton & Hove, sound systems hummed, rainbow flags flew high, and streets pulsed with energy as thousands came together. To those who kicked things off on Friday night (guilty), bravo. You completed the full three-day trek to the end of the rainbow!

From the very start, the city buzzed with excitement as people waited in anticipation for the parade spectacle. Roller skaters, samba bands, acrobats, fire fighters, and businesses joined in - even "the oldest gay in the village" made their iconic annual appearance. A highlight? The Brighton Gay Men's Chorus, belting in harmony whilst bringing tears to more than a few eyes. Pride’s main day felt like being swept into a wave, one that carries you from side quest to side quest, meeting people full of love along the way.

Among the weekend’s standout moments was The Joker pub, which delivered a legendary party led by DJ Henry Jams. Confetti cannons burst overhead, staff danced on the bar, and the energy didn’t dip for a second. Those who had taken Monday off work did the right thing. For everyone else...Godspeed.

Sundays at Pride are wholesome, gentle, but just as fun-filled as Saturday. Fatboy Slim brought the tent down with an extraordinary set, pairing old classics with his signature sound. Dancers and dazzling visuals lit up the tent as the energy soared. Over at the Red Bull tent, Lexi London tore it down. ASBO caught him at Deadwax Social the night before, where he fused heavy dance beats with old-school R&B bangers.

And yes - Will Young has still got it. His familiar vocals filled the air like a warm hug, singing old favourites that fed the soul. Finally, the Sugababes closed the weekend with pure euphoria, and the crowd danced arm in arm, singing lyrics into the darkening sky.

We hope you’re looking back on the weekend with a full heart, and maybe still a little glitter in your hair. One thing’s for sure: we’ll be back next year, same time, same place. See you then!