Frequently Asked Questions

York Pride 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions

🎉 General Information

When is York Pride 2025?
Saturday 7th June 2025. The Parade sets off at 11:45am, with the main festival running from 11:30am to 7:00pm.

Where is the event held?
The festival takes place on the Knavesmire, next to York Racecourse. The nearest postcode is YO23 1EX.

Is York Pride free to attend?
Yes! York Pride is completely free and unticketed. Donations and wristband sales help keep it that way.

Is the event family-friendly?
Absolutely – all ages are welcome! From live entertainment and community stalls to food vendors and family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone.


🏳️‍🌈 Parade & Participation

Find out more about the parade here: Parade page

Do I need to register to take part in the Parade?
Nope! Individuals are welcome to just turn up and walk with Pride. If you’re attending as part of an organisation or bringing a float or vehicle, we do ask that you register in advance on the website.

Is Pride open to everyone?
Always. Pride is about visibility, unity, and celebration. Whether you’re LGBTQ+, an ally, or here to support someone you love – you’re welcome.

Can political groups take part?
Only local representatives and community groups are permitted. Participation must reflect local LGBTQ+ support and not promote national party politics. Pride is a politically neutral charity and does not endorse any political party or national policy platform.

Can I bring signs or banners?
Yes – we love a bold, positive message! All signage must comply with UK law and public decency. Messaging that promotes hate, incites violence, or targets individuals will not be allowed.

Can people protest at Pride?
Pride has its roots in protest – peaceful, respectful activism is part of our heritage. We ask all attendees to be kind, non-confrontational, and considerate of others. Anyone engaging in harassment or disruptive behaviour will be asked to leave.


👗 Dress Code & Behaviour

Is there a dress code?
There’s no formal dress code – Pride is a celebration of self-expression and identity. Wear what feels empowering, creative, or bold! Just remember, all outfits must comply with public decency laws. While nudity and sexually explicit clothing aren’t allowed, kink-inspired looks are welcome as long as they’re styled appropriately for a public, family-accessible event.

Can I wear a costume or themed outfit?
Absolutely! Pride is the perfect time to show off your creativity – from glitter and drag to leather, latex, or cosplay. Just keep it safe, respectful, and within the bounds of public decency. If in doubt, accessorize with confidence and a smile.


🧑‍🦽 Accessibility

Find out more about our accessibility features here: Accessibility page

Is York Pride accessible?
York Pride aims to be as accessible as possible. The site is a large grass field, which can be uneven, but over 500m of trackway is installed to help reach key areas.

What accessibility features are provided?

  • Over 500m of trackway across the site
  • Accessible toilets and two Changing Places RevoLOO units
  • Viewing platform near the Main Stage
  • BSL interpreters on the Main Stage throughout the day
  • Quiet Hour (11:30am–12:30pm)
  • Quiet Tent near First Aid and HQ
  • Large screens for stage visibility
  • Blue badge parking (no pre-booking required)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parade bus spaces (contact parade@yorkpride.org.uk)
  • Free water for service animals
  • Marshals available across the site wearing yellow high-vis vests

🧘‍♀️ Welfare & Sensory Support

Find out more about our welfare and sensory support here: Accessibility page

Is there a welfare or sensory space?
Yes. A Quiet Tent is located near the First Aid area and HQ for anyone who needs a low-stimulation environment during the day.

Will there be loud music or lighting effects?
Yes – the Main Stage and Queer Arts Stage will feature loud music, spark machines, and confetti cannons. No strobe lights will be used. Free foam ear plugs are available from Pride HQ for sound-sensitive attendees.


🐾 Pets

Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Dogs are very welcome – just keep them on a lead and bring water, especially in warm weather. Water is available for dogs at First Aid and HQ.


📸 Photography & Filming

Can I take photos or videos at Pride?
Yes – but please be respectful of others. Always ask before taking close-up photos of individuals or groups.

Will York Pride be filming?
Yes – our team will be capturing content throughout the day for social media and future events. If you have concerns, please speak to a marshal or visit HQ.


🎟️ Wristbands

Find out more about our wristband scheme here: Wristbands and offers

Do I need a wristband to attend York Pride?
No – York Pride is completely free to attend and wristbands are not required for entry. But purchasing a wristband is a brilliant way to support the event while unlocking some amazing perks.

Why should I buy a wristband?
Your £6 goes a long way! By wearing a York Pride 2025 wristband, you’re helping fund a free, inclusive festival for over 17,500 people – and you get some brilliant bonuses too:

  • Access to over 50 discounts across York’s shops, bars, restaurants, attractions, and more – valid all year!
  • Free entry to the Official York Pride Afterparty before 10pm (discounted after 10pm)
  • A choice of three new designs for 2025: Rainbow, Bi, and Trans Pride
  • That lovely warm feeling of helping keep Pride free for everyone

Where can I buy a wristband?
You can buy yours online via the York Pride website or in person at:

  • York Pride HQ and Shop (on Pride day)
  • Visit York (Parliament Street)
  • LNER at York Station

How long are wristband discounts valid for?
Most offers run until 31 December 2025, but some are Pride weekend exclusives – check the full list of partners and terms on the wristbands and discounts page.

What kinds of discounts are included?
Think food and drink deals, entry to attractions like York Dungeon and Chocolate Story, free treats at stalls, and even discounted estate agency fees and rum tastings! It’s well worth the £6 and helps keep Pride running strong.


🍔 Food & Drink

Find out more about our food and drink offer here: York Pride Guide 2025

Can I bring my own food or drink?
You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks (just no glass containers or bottles, please, for safety). While we don’t ban personal alcohol, we do encourage you to support our on-site bar – it’s got great prices, a fantastic selection, and helps keep Pride running strong!

Is food and drink available at the event?
Yes – we’ll have over 22 food and drink traders and a large main bar offering deals and Pride-themed promotions.

Is free water available?
Yes – available at Pride HQ and First Aid stations, including for service dogs.


🚻 Toilets

Find out more about our toilets offer here: York Pride Guide 2025 and Accessibility page

Are the toilets gender-neutral and accessible?
Yes. All toilets are gender-neutral, with accessible units at each block. Two fully equipped mobile Changing Places (RevoLOOtion) units are also on site.


💳 Payments

Can I pay with card or cash?
Yes – most traders accept both. All official York Pride stalls and the bar take card and cash.


🚗 Travel & Parking

How do I get to Pride?
Walk, cycle, or use public transport if you can. There are bus stops nearby and very limited local parking.

Is blue badge parking available?
Yes – simply turn up with your blue badge. No need to book in advance. Follow the signage for “Vehicle Entrance” on the day.


💬 Lost Property

Find out more about our site layout here: York Pride Guide 2025

Where do I go if I lose something?
Lost property can be handed in or collected from Pride HQ, located near the Main Stage.


🎤 Entertainment & Line-Up

Where can I find the York Pride 2025 line-up?
York Pride features multiple stages and performance spaces, each with their own vibe and schedule. You can find full line-ups and timings here:

These pages are updated regularly – please note that line-ups are subject to change.

How many stages are there?
We’ve got four exciting performance and entertainment zones at York Pride 2025:

  • 🎤 Main Stage – Our biggest stage with headline acts, pop stars, drag royalty, DJs, and crowd-favourite performers
  • 🎭 Cabaret Stage – Hosted by YorkMix, featuring drag, live vocals, comedy, spoken word, and underground talent
  • 💃 Dance Tent – A high-energy space hosted by guest DJs and club brands – expect beats, lights, and non-stop dance
  • 🎨 QueerArts Community Arts Space – A creative hub showcasing local LGBTQ+ artists, workshops, performances, and interactive exhibits

Will performances be BSL interpreted?
Yes – the Main Stage will have British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation throughout the day, covering all performances, speeches, and announcements.

Is there something for everyone?
Absolutely! Whether you’re here for the music, the art, the dancing, the drag, or just the atmosphere – there’s something for everyone to enjoy across the day.


👨‍👩‍👧 Families & Children at York Pride

Is York Pride suitable for families with children?
Yes – York Pride is a family-friendly event and welcomes attendees of all ages! From vibrant performances and creative spaces to food stalls and community fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Are there activities for children?
Absolutely! We have circus skills workshops running from 12:30pm to 5:30pm, where children (and grown-ups!) can try out juggling, plate spinning, and more. You’ll also find family-friendly performances, stalls, and creative spaces across the site – including activities in the QueerArts Community Arts Space.

Is the content appropriate for kids?
We aim to keep all stage content suitable for a general audience during the day. Some performances later in the afternoon may include adult humour – full line-ups are available online so you can plan ahead.

Can I bring a pushchair?
Yes – but please note the site is a large grass field and may be uneven. Trackway is installed across key areas to help with access, though pushchairs with larger wheels are often easiest to manage.

Are there baby-changing facilities?
Yes. Accessible toilets are available across the site, and our two mobile Changing Places units offer extra space and facilities. Speak to a marshal or head to Pride HQ if you need directions.


🍔 Food, Drink & Dietary Requirements

Find out more about our food and drink retailers here: Food and drink at York Pride 2025

What food and drink is available at York Pride?
We’ve got a huge variety of food and drink traders this year – over 20 in total! From loaded fries and mac & cheese to Caribbean jerk wraps, Asian street food, ice cream vans, vegan kebabs, artisan desserts, bubble tea and fresh lemonade – there’s something for everyone.

Do vendors cater for dietary requirements?
Yes – many of our food stalls can accommodate a wide range of dietary needs. Across the site you’ll find traders offering:

  • Vegan and vegetarian options
  • Gluten-free and dairy-free dishes
  • Halal-friendly items (check with individual vendors)
  • Kid-friendly treats like mini donuts, soft drinks, and ice cream

If you’re unsure, just ask the friendly staff at each stall.

What’s the price range like?
Most dishes range from £3 to £15, with plenty of options under £10. You’ll also find soft drinks, iced coffees, milkshakes, and sweet treats to enjoy between performances.

Can I bring my own food or drink?
Yes – you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or non-alcoholic drinks (please, no glass containers). However, alcohol cannot be brought onto the site – but our licensed bar will be serving all day.

Are there any free food or drink options?
While food and drink must be purchased, free drinking water is available at First Aid stations and Pride HQ, including for service dogs.