Tens of thousands of people gathered in Birmingham city center on Saturday, May 23, 2026, for the 29th anniversary of Birmingham Pride.
The event features an iconic parade and a two-day ticketed music festival.
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Organizers altered the traditional parade route this year due to significant public realm construction works that started on New Street in January 2026.
The procession was diverted along Stephenson Street and Stephenson Place before finishing at Hippodrome Square.
An estimated 75,000 spectators were expected to line the streets for the free parade. It commenced at Victoria Square at midday following an 11:00 a.
m. assembly.
Festival and Tickets
The festival took place at the Smithfield site, pausing previous plans to return to the Gay Village on Hurst Street.
Weekend ticket prices were reduced to £46.87 from £73.70 in 2025.
Festival organizers stated that their goal was to foster an inclusive environment for the annual celebration. The event marks its 30th anniversary in 2027.
Organizers said they aim to "play a leading role in building a community where all people are free to live without fear or prejudice."
The event is not-for-profit, and organizers noted they have awarded more than £500,000 to local community and support groups since 2014.
Entertainment Lineup
The main stage entertainment on Saturday featured headline acts Katy B and Sigala.
They were supported by Danny Beard, Lynks, Booty Luv, Sweet Female Attitude, LLEO, Nansee, and Call Me Unique.
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Sunday's lineup includes Girls Aloud star Nadine Coyle, Björn Again, Boney M featuring Mazie Williams, Amelle, Kelly Llorenna, Black Peppa, and Nxdia.
The Dance Arena hosts Jaguar, Arthi, Big Ang, Wïles, and Forbid across the weekend.
Transport Disruptions
West Midlands Metro confirmed major tram disruption on Saturday. Services were suspended between Corporation Street and Edgbaston Village from 9:00 a.
m. until approximately 3:00 p.
m. due to the parade.
Industrial action on West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway also reduced train timetables.
National Express West Midlands diverted dozens of bus routes, including services 2, 3, 4, 16, 45, 50, 97, and X1.
Upcoming Pride Events
Additional Pride events are scheduled across the West Midlands later this summer.
Wolverhampton Pride will be held on June 6, followed by Dudley Pride on July 18, and Stafford Pride on August 8.
Walsall Pride 2026 will conclude the regional summer festival lineup at the Walsall Arboretum Extension on August 29.
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A free pre-pride picnic event is scheduled for July 26.
