Since 1999, Pride Cymru has been the biggest annual event in Wales's LGBT+ community. It welcomes people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds to join them in celebrating diversity and striving for equality in support of the LGBT+ community and other minorities. Pride Cymru rocks. Here are some of the things we love about the celebration.
Pride Cymru 2024 takes place in Cardiff Castle on 22 and 23 June 2024.
It celebrates diversity
Pride Cymru has developed into Wales’ largest celebration of equality and diversity. It's a weekend where people come together to celebrate their uniqueness and where everyone is equal, regardless of sex, age, gender, race, social background or sexual orientation.
The colourful parade brightens up the streets
Each year, Pride Cymru encourages visitors to enter their annual parade on the Saturday. Whether people join individually or with friends or family, the parade sees thousands of people march peaceful through the streets of Cardiff city centre. Many local businesses join in too, promoting equality and standing behind employees who identify as LGBT+. It's one of Cardiff’s brightest parades.
Welcomes big names
Each year, more than 50 acts join Pride Cymru. They range from pop stars and drag queens to famous faces and local celebrities. Past headliners include Texas, Sonique, Melanie C, Atomic Kitten, Gok Wan, Boney M and Charlotte Church.
The location
Pride Cymru takes place in the heart of the city. Not only has it made the event easily accessible for anyone travelling to the capital of Wales, but it is also in one of Cardiff’s most vibrant areas.
Opens the curtains for drag performers and comedians
From drag queens and drag kings to tribute acts and comedians, Pride Cymru has it all. A dedicated cabaret stage is the ultimate place for any musical and performance lover. There are always great tribute acts who bring the spirits of music queens and pop princesses by covering their major hits. Plus, there's entertainment for everyone in the youth and family area.
It is community focused
Given Pride Cymru’s involvement with local communities, Pride Cymru has become the perfect opportunity to find out more about local LGBT+ communities and other charities. Pride Cymru offers stalls to community organisations to ensure they are represented throughout the weekend. There’s also a Faith Tent each year, because religion doesn't exclude anyone who identifies as LGBT+.
Its dedication to accessibility
Pride Cymru is one of only two Pride events in the UK that has received a Gold award in accessibility by Attitude is Everything. This event has developed into one of the most welcoming events. It makes performances accessible to the deaf and hard of hearing community. With British Sign Language interpreters, a dedicated disability platform to the main stage, disability facilities, designated accessibility tickets and even a quiet zone, anyone who wants to enjoy Pride can do so.
Some great street food to try
All around Cardiff City Hall Lawns, there are rows of food stalls serving exciting takeaway options. Whether you’re vegan or a meat lover, a fan of fancy Caribbean-infused food or simply prefer a classic burger, there's something you'll like.
The volunteers
Pride Cymru wouldn’t be the same without the hundreds of welcoming volunteers. The Welsh LGBT+ charity wouldn’t exist without them. During the weekend, all volunteers come together to celebrate diversity with visitors and bring the LGBT+ community closer together.
Supporting local acts
Alongside the big names attending, Pride Cymru welcomes some of South Wales’ finest local performers, ranging from drag acts to singers to choirs. Visitors are spoilt for choice.
It is great for children
With a designated Family Area and reduced ticket prices for kids, Pride Cymru has become a great day out for families with children of all ages. The family area hosts a range of activities for the younger visitors and even a dog show.
It continues to be a safe space
Pride Cymru was originally created in response to a rise of hate crime. While diversity and equality is celebrated throughout the weekend, the fight against intolerance and abuse continues. Pride Cymru continues to be one of the biggest events where minority groups can highlight the difficulties they face. People can come together and be true to who they are, without feeling judged or unprotected.
Each year families and friends come to Cardiff to show their support to loved ones who have recently come out to them, making it one big celebration of love.
When is the next Pride Cymru?
Pride Cymru takes place in Cardiff Castle on 22 and 23 June 2024
Visit Pride Cymru's Facebook page to stay up to date with the charity's activities.