York Pride 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
When is York Pride 2026?
York Pride takes place on Saturday 30 May 2026. The Parade leaves York city centre at 11:00am, and the main festival runs from 11:00am to 7:00pm on the Knavesmire.
Where is the event held?
The festival takes place on the Knavesmire, next to York Racecourse (postcode YO23 1EX).
Is York Pride free to attend?
Yes. York Pride remains completely free and unticketed thanks to donations, wristband sales, sponsors, and volunteers.
Is the event family-friendly?
Absolutely. York Pride welcomes all ages, with live entertainment, community stalls, family activities, and a wide range of food and drink options across the site.
Parade and Participation
York Pride Day begins with our spectacular Parade March, filling York’s streets with colour, music, and celebration before arriving at the Knavesmire.
Do I need to register to take part in the Parade?
For 2026, all groups, organisations, and businesses must register in advance and pay a small participation fee. Individuals, families, and small friendship groups can still join the public section on the day without registering.
Is Pride open to everyone?
Always. Pride is for everyone — LGBTQ+ people, allies, friends, and families — united in visibility, love, and inclusion.
Can political groups take part?
Political parties cannot participate under party branding or distribute party-political material. Local representatives and community groups may attend if their involvement focuses on LGBT+ inclusion and equality.
Can people bring banners or signs?
Yes, as long as they’re positive, respectful, and in line with UK law. Anything offensive or discriminatory will not be permitted.
Is protest allowed?
Pride has its roots in protest. Peaceful, respectful activism is welcome, but attendees must be kind, considerate, and non-confrontational so everyone can celebrate safely.
Dress Code and Behaviour
Is there a dress code?
There’s no dress code — Pride is about self-expression. Wear what makes you feel confident, creative, and proud, provided it complies with public decency laws.
Can I wear a costume or themed outfit?
Yes. From glitter and drag to leather, latex, and cosplay, Pride is the perfect time to express yourself. Keep it safe, respectful, and suitable for a public, family-accessible event.
Accessibility
York Pride aims to be as accessible as possible. The Knavesmire is a grass field, which can be uneven, but over 500 metres of trackway will be installed to connect key areas.
Accessibility features include accessible toilets and Changing Places RevoLOO units, a viewing platform near the Main Stage, BSL interpreters throughout the day, a Quiet Tent and Quiet Hour, blue badge parking, wheelchair-accessible parade bus spaces, large on-site screens, and marshals in yellow high-visibility vests who can assist across the site.
The Quiet Hour will run from 11:00am to 12:00 noon, providing a calmer start to the day before the Parade and main entertainment begin.
More details about accessibility can be found on the Accessibility page.
Welfare and Sensory Support
York Pride provides a Quiet Tent, designed by and for neurodivergent people, located near Pride HQ and First Aid. It offers a calm, low-stimulation environment for anyone needing time away from the crowds.
The Main Stage features loud music, spark machines, and confetti cannons (but no strobe lighting). Free foam earplugs are available from Pride HQ for anyone sensitive to sound.
Pets
Dogs are very welcome at York Pride, but must remain on a lead at all times. Free water for dogs is available at Pride HQ and First Aid.
Photography and Filming
Photography and filming are encouraged, but please be respectful and ask before taking close-up photos of others. York Pride’s media team will capture moments throughout the day for social media and future promotional use. If you have concerns, speak to a marshal or visit HQ.
Wristbands
York Pride is completely free to attend — wristbands are not required for entry.
2025 wristbands are still valid until 31 December 2025, with offers available at shops, bars, restaurants, attractions, and venues across York. They cost £6 and can be purchased online or in person at Visit York, LNER at York Station, or Pride HQ on the day.
Wristbands for York Pride 2026 are not yet available. Details of new designs, partners, and offers will be announced in due course via www.yorkpride.org.uk and social media @yorkpride.
Food and Drink
York Pride hosts more than twenty independent food and drink traders offering global street food, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks. Expect a mix of vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free dishes to suit every taste and budget.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own snacks or soft drinks (no glass containers or outside alcohol, please). The licensed bar will be open all day, and free drinking water is available at Pride HQ and First Aid.
Toilets
All toilet blocks are gender-neutral and include accessible units. Two fully equipped mobile Changing Places (RevoLOOtion) units will also be on site.
Travel and Parking
We recommend walking, cycling, or using public transport wherever possible. Bus routes stop close to the Knavesmire, but local parking is limited. Blue badge parking is available without pre-booking — simply display your badge and follow the event signage for the vehicle entrance.
Lost Property
Lost or found items should be handed in to Pride HQ, located near the Main Stage.
Entertainment and Line-Up
York Pride 2026 will once again feature multiple performance areas, including the Main Stage, Cabaret Stage, Dance Tent, and QueerArts Space. Full line-ups and timings will be announced nearer the event. The Main Stage will include continuous BSL interpretation throughout the day.
Families and Children at Pride
York Pride is proud to be family-friendly and open to all ages. The Family Area on the Knavesmire provides a safe, creative space with inclusive activities, performances, and resources for children, parents, and carers.
Pushchairs are welcome, though please note the site is grass and may be uneven. Baby-changing facilities are available across the site, and our Changing Places units provide additional space and equipment.
Stage content remains suitable for a general audience during the day, with any adult-themed material scheduled later in the afternoon.
For more details about accessibility, volunteering, sponsorship, or trading, visit www.yorkpride.org.uk or email info@yorkpride.org.uk.
York Pride aims to be as inclusive and welcoming as possible — and we can’t wait to celebrate with you on Saturday 30 May 2026, from 11am to 7pm.
