More than 17,000 people are expected to flood the streets of York this Saturday, June 7, 2025, for York Pride, the largest LGBTQ+ festival in North Yorkshire. This vibrant event, backed by over 130 local businesses, promises to be a dazzling celebration of diversity, community, and progress, with a packed schedule of entertainment and activities that will light up the city from the parade to the grand finale at Knavesmire.
Organizing a festival of this scale is no small feat. York Pride costs upwards of £115,000 each year to stage, a sum raised through the tireless efforts of a dedicated team of volunteers and the generous support of local sponsors. Among them, The Milner York, a historic hotel often hailed as “The Grand Dame of York,” has proudly stepped forward as the official hotel partner for this year’s festivities. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to inclusivity and community spirit.
Victoria Poole, Director of Sales at The Milner York, expressed her enthusiasm for the event: “We are absolutely thrilled to be a sponsor of York Pride this year. As I see it, Pride is not only a celebration, but also a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and how important it is to keep moving forward. At The Milner York, we believe in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome, valued, and safe. Supporting York Pride is an extension of that belief.”
Greg Stephenson, Chair of York Pride, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the crucial role of partnerships in making the festival possible. “Without partners, sponsors and supporters York Pride would just not happen,” he said. “We are very grateful to the team at The Milner York for being our 2025 hotel sponsor. The hotel is a jewel in the city’s accommodation offering and its history and passion from the team that work there make this partnership truly special.”
The day’s events kick off with a lively parade departing from York’s city centre at noon. The procession will wind its way through the streets, drawing crowds adorned in glitter, rainbows, and sparkles, before arriving at the expansive Knavesmire park. Here, the community celebration unfolds with over 150 stalls showcasing local crafts, food, and services, alongside a funfair, a family-friendly zone, and circus workshops that promise entertainment for all ages. A highlight within the festivities is York Trans Pride, an integral part of the event that fosters visibility and support for the transgender community.
The main stage at Knavesmire is set for a star-studded lineup. Fans will be thrilled to see Ru Paul Drag Race stars La Voix and The Angels of the North bring their dazzling performances to the stage. The Cheeky Girls, known for their catchy tunes and infectious energy, will also be performing, alongside West End sensation Kerry Ellis and X Factor finalist Marcus Collins. This diverse array of talent ensures there’s something for everyone, blending pop culture with powerful messages of pride and acceptance.
York Pride’s success is a testament to the strength and solidarity of the local community. With more than 130 businesses rallying behind the event, it not only celebrates LGBTQ+ culture but also boosts the city’s economy and showcases York as a welcoming destination for all. The Milner York’s involvement as the official hotel partner highlights the event’s significance in the city’s cultural calendar and its growing reputation as a beacon of inclusivity.
Despite the unpredictable British weather, organizers have made additional provisions to ensure the festival site is comfortable and safe for attendees throughout the day. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with the streets and park awash in colour and joy, reflecting the spirit of pride that resonates far beyond the event itself.
For those planning to attend, it’s worth noting that the parade’s route and the festival’s activities may affect local traffic and transport, so checking the latest updates on the official York Pride website is advisable. The site also offers comprehensive information about the schedule, accessibility, and how to get involved, whether as a volunteer, vendor, or supporter.
York Pride stands as a powerful reminder of the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights and the ongoing journey toward equality and acceptance. It’s more than just a party; it’s a statement of resilience, community, and hope. As Victoria Poole aptly put it, Pride is a celebration and a call to keep moving forward.
With its rich history, passionate supporters, and vibrant community spirit, York Pride 2025 is set to be a landmark event, drawing thousands together in a shared celebration of identity, love, and freedom. From the parade to the performances, the stalls to the workshops, the day promises memories that will sparkle long after the last rainbow flag is folded away.
