Diana Ross And RAYE To Headline Brighton Pride 2026

In a dazzling announcement that has already sent ripples of anticipation through the UK’s LGBTQ+ community and music lovers alike, Brighton Pride has revealed its headliners for the 2026 festival—and the lineup is nothing short of iconic. On Saturday, August 1, 2026, chart-topping British sensation RAYE will take center stage at Preston Park, while the legendary Diana Ross, known globally as the "Queen of Motown," is set to close out the festivities with a career-spanning performance on Sunday, August 2. This year’s event marks the 35th anniversary of Brighton & Hove Pride, a milestone that organizers and attendees are eager to celebrate in grand style.

According to Brighton Pride’s official announcement, the 2026 edition is themed "The Power of Love." It’s a fitting tribute to the festival’s long-standing mission to champion inclusivity, equality, and the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community. The event has evolved significantly since its beginnings: Brighton’s first gay pride march took place in 1973, organized by the Sussex Gay Liberation Front, a group formed in 1971 by local activists and students. The annual Pride on the Park, which has become the centerpiece of the city’s celebrations, first launched in 1991, and has grown into one of the UK’s largest and most beloved Pride festivals.

Saturday’s headline act, RAYE, is no stranger to the spotlight. Since her debut, she has racked up an impressive 20 UK Top 40 singles and boasts over 10 billion streams worldwide—a staggering figure that speaks to her widespread appeal and creative prowess. Her recent chart-topping single, "Where is my Husband," has only cemented her status as a pop powerhouse. For many fans, seeing RAYE perform live at Preston Park will be a highlight of the summer, and her presence underscores Brighton Pride’s commitment to showcasing both established legends and contemporary stars.

But it’s Sunday’s headliner who is capturing headlines far beyond the city’s borders. Diana Ross, at 81 years old, remains one of the most celebrated performers in music history. As the former lead singer of The Supremes, she helped define the Motown sound of the 1960s and 70s, delivering hit after hit that still resonate with audiences today. Her solo career has been equally illustrious, and her influence on pop, soul, and R&B is immeasurable. The festival’s organizers describe her upcoming performance as a "UK event exclusive," promising a setlist packed with timeless classics.

Fans can expect to hear such anthems as "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough," "I’m Coming Out," "Endless Love," and "Stop! In The Name Of Love"—songs that have not only topped charts but also become cultural touchstones, especially within LGBTQ+ communities. As Brighton Pride’s official Instagram post put it, "We cannot wait to welcome the legendary Diana Ross to the main stage for this iconic performance as part of Brighton & Hove Pride’s 35th Anniversary. Expect a career-spanning set of timeless classics, including ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’, ‘Endless Love’, ‘Stop! In The Name Of Love’ and ‘I’m Coming Out’. One of the most celebrated performers in music history. This is one unmissable Pride moment."

The decision to bring Diana Ross to Brighton Pride is already being hailed as a coup by organizers and fans alike. Not only does it reinforce the festival’s reputation for attracting world-class talent, but it also honors the enduring connection between Ross’s music and the LGBTQ+ community. Songs like "I’m Coming Out" have long been embraced as unofficial Pride anthems, their messages of self-expression and liberation resonating across generations.

Ticket demand is expected to be fierce. Presale tickets will be available at 10am on Thursday, February 12, 2026, with general ticket sales opening at 10am on Friday, February 13. Organizers are urging fans to act quickly to secure their spots at what is shaping up to be one of the most memorable Pride weekends in recent memory.

Beyond the star-studded headliners, the 2026 festival holds special significance as it marks 35 years since Brighton & Hove Pride first became an annual event. The journey from the city’s inaugural Pride march in 1973—a modest but defiant gathering organized by the Sussex Gay Liberation Front—to today’s sprawling celebration is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of the local LGBTQ+ community. Over the decades, Brighton Pride has grown not just in size, but in cultural importance, evolving into a beacon of acceptance and joy that draws visitors from across the UK and beyond.

Reflecting on the festival’s legacy, it’s impossible to ignore the social and political progress that has accompanied its rise. In the early years, participants faced significant hostility and legal barriers, but through persistence and solidarity, Brighton Pride has helped foster a city known for its openness and diversity. Each year, the event serves as both a celebration and a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality—a message that feels especially poignant as the festival enters its fourth decade.

For local residents, the economic and cultural impact of Pride is substantial. The festival brings an influx of visitors, boosts local businesses, and showcases Brighton’s reputation as a welcoming, forward-thinking city. The presence of international stars like Diana Ross only amplifies the event’s profile, attracting media attention and reinforcing the city’s place on the global stage.

Of course, the heart of Brighton Pride remains its community spirit. The festival’s theme for 2026, "The Power of Love," speaks to the enduring bonds that unite attendees—whether they are longtime activists, first-time visitors, or music fans eager to see their idols perform. As the city prepares to welcome tens of thousands of revelers this August, organizers are promising a safe, inclusive, and unforgettable experience for all.

With RAYE and Diana Ross topping the bill, Brighton & Hove Pride 2026 is poised to deliver a weekend of music, celebration, and reflection unlike any other. For those lucky enough to attend, it promises to be a true highlight of the summer—and for the city itself, a powerful affirmation of love, resilience, and pride.