8 perfect London Pride events for families, budgeteers and partygoers
London Pride may be synonymous with parties, glitter and raucous DJs, but there’s plenty of opportunities to celebrate this weekend in a more mild-mannered way. Whether you have kids or you’re just low on time, these are the Pride events that you don’t want to miss.
The main parade kicks off from Portland Place at noon, finishing on Whitehall in the afternoon, so central London will be abuzz with activity. Over a million people stopped by London Pride in 2018, so it’s good practice to bring water, snacks and a portable charger with you, no matter what event you visit.
Only have a few hours to experience Pride? Start the morning off with Prosecco, cabaret and laughter at the Embankment “It’s a Drag Brunch,” running from 9am to 1pm and showcasing some of London’s best drag performers. If you’re feeling bold, feel free to serve your own drag looks, but don’t feel pressured–all are welcome at this performance.
For a calmer start to your morning, take a wander around St. Martin’s Courtyard, just two minutes from either Covent Garden or Leicester Square. Pop-up stalls on The Lawn will be selling £20 “Choose Love” shirts and offering £5 rainbow makeovers, with all profits going to the charity Help Refugees.
If you’re not makeup-minded, pop by Blow Ltd’s free glitter and hair braiding bar, running on a first-come, first-served basis from 10:30am. Later on, swing by between noon and 1pm for free pizza from Temper and free cocktails and soft drinks from Maison Bab. Score!
The festivities are set to run all weekend, so don’t party yourself out too early. On Sunday, gather up the family and take a trip down to the Royal Opera House for “Family Pride.” With over 13 events happening throughout the day, from Drag Queen Story Hour to the gender-neutral Tea Dance, there’s something for everyone.
Plus, if you’ve been trying to find an excuse to visit the zoo, “Rainbow Families Day” at the ZSL London Zoo is the perfect time to soak up the sunshine and see the animals–including the zoo’s famous gay penguin couple, Ronnie and Reggie. It doesn’t get much better than that, folks.