Brighton & Hove Pride celebrated its 35th anniversary at the weekend with a star-studded two-day event that celebrated The Power of Love.
Saturday August 1st kicked off with the annual LGBTQ+ Community Parade, under this year’s theme, The Power of Love, with more than 125 groups taking part.
There could have been no more fitting finale than the legendary Diana Ross taking to the stage with “I’m Coming Out”, as thousands celebrated together. Her spectacular set was packed with timeless classics, including “You Can’t Hurry Love”, “Where Did Our Love Go”, “Upside Down”, and many more.
Preston Park attracted tens of thousands of Pride-goers whp revelled in world-class entertainment from a starry lineup of artists, including Moonchild Sanelly, Self Esteem and Leigh-Anne [showing off her “baby belly” – expecting her third child].
Drag royalty RuPaul headlined Saturday’s Icons slot with an exclusive DJ set, making several triumphant struts down the catwalk. Jessie J’ had the crowd singing along to smash hits including “Domino”, “Do It Like A Dude” and “Price Tag”.
The evening belonged to one of the biggest artists in the world, RAYE. Closing the show with a breathtaking set that seamlessly blended heartfelt ballads, big-band brilliance and chart-topping anthems.. Having first graced the Brighton Pride stage a decade ago, her triumphant return was a testament to her artistry.
Sunday saw Pale Waves and Caity Baser kick off proceedings before Spice Girl Melanie C took to the decks for a DJ set, which featured the debut of her brand new track, “A Place Where We Belong”.
Frankie Goes to Hollywood legend Holly Johnson proved to be a huge crowd favourite, treating pridegoers to iconic hits including “Two Tribes”, “Relax”, and an emotional performance of The Power of Love. This year’s Icons slot belonged to Paris Hilton performing in a diamanté-encrusted Union Jack dress.
Boyband Five brought the energy and the nostalgia, delivering a high-octane performance packed with fan favourites including “Got the Feelin’ “, “Keep On Movin’ “, and “When the Lights Go Out”.
State of Us hosted an incredible selection of DJs, who dominated the stage across the weekend, with Saturday headliner Purple Disco Machine delivering his signature nu-disco and funk-fuelled rhythms, and Sunday headliner Armand Van Helden bringing his signature house classics and timeless club grooves.
Photos by Luke Dyson
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