Reading Pride 2025-2026
- TBA
- Reading
- Details
The day begins with the spectacular Love Unites Parade, starting at 11 AM from Reading Station and winding its way through the town center before arriving at Kings Meadow at noon. This colorful procession is the heart of the event, allowing individuals, families, community groups, and local businesses to show their support for lgbtq+Q+ equality in the most visible way possible. The parade route takes participants past some of Reading's most iconic landmarks, ensuring maximum visibility and community engagement.
What makes Reading Pride particularly special is its commitment to remaining completely free for all attendees. In an era where many Pride events have become increasingly commercialized, Reading Pride maintains its grassroots ethos by relying on community donations and volunteer support rather than expensive ticket sales. This approach ensures that financial circumstances never prevent anyone from participating in this important celebration of diversity and equality.
The festival site at Kings Meadow transforms into a rainbow-colored wonderland, with multiple stages showcasing an incredible variety of entertainment. The Main Stage features headline acts and performances by Reading Pride's beloved drag queens, who bring their unique blend of humor, glamour, and social commentary to the celebration. The Pride aLive Stage provides a platform for emerging local artists, giving them the opportunity to perform in front of thousands of supportive audience members and potentially launch their careers to new heights.
New for 2025, the Pride Dance tent promises to be a major attraction, offering a dedicated space for those who want to dance the day away to the latest hits and classic Pride anthems. This addition reflects the organizers' commitment to evolving the event based on community feedback and ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.
Families are at the heart of Reading Pride, with a dedicated family zone offering age-appropriate entertainment and activities. Face painting, storytelling, and interactive games help introduce children to the values of acceptance and equality in fun, engaging ways. The family area also provides a quieter space for parents with young children who might need a break from the main stage excitement while still remaining part of the celebration.
The festival's commitment to accessibility is evident throughout the event. British Sign Language interpretation is provided for key performances and announcements, ensuring that deaf and hard-of-hearing community members can fully participate. Quiet zones offer respite for those who might find the main festival areas overwhelming, while accessible viewing areas ensure that wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges have excellent views of all the entertainment.