Thousands took part in the Pride March through Swindon town centre on Saturday 15th August before heading to GWR Park for an afternoon of entertainment.
Girls Aloud star Nadine Coyle headlined the free festival, performing a selection of the group’s hits alongside songs from her solo career.
Phoenix Stewart, who is their Community Engagement Manager;
“This Pride was our best yet. Our 18th year, and genuinely the biggest and most vibrant Pride we’ve ever delivered. We had more stalls, better accessibility, and the highest turnout ever! The committee who are all volunteers are now taking a well‑earned breather before we start looking ahead to 2027.”
The Pride march gathered on the junction between bridge Street and fleet Street before setting off through the town centre at 11.30am.
Participants carrying Pride flags, banners and placards made their way to GWR Park, arriving at around midday ahead of the main festival.
Entertainment was staged across the Main Stage and Community Stage throughout the afternoon.
The Main Stage line-up also included RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Baga Chipz, The Spotlight Choir, The Harry Styles Show and Donna Marie as Lady Gaga.
Local performers and community groups took to the Community Stage, including North Star New Wave Sound Collective and Chocolate Theatre.
Great British Bake Off favourite Janusz Domagała also appeared at the festival alongside co-host Latina Ballroom.
Charities, community organisations and businesses hosted stalls across GWR Park, while food and drink traders were also present.
There were dedicated youth areas, funfair rides and circus entertainment for visitors.
A quieter hour was held at GWR Park between 11am and midday as part of measures intended to make the event accessible to a wider range of visitors.
Speaking ahead of the event, Swindon & Wiltshire Pride chair Paul Stewart said:
“Pride is about bringing people together, celebrating our diverse communities and creating a welcoming space where everyone can feel accepted and included.
“We’re excited to return in 2026 with a fantastic programme of entertainment, community activities and family-friendly attractions, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from across Swindon, Wiltshire, and beyond.”
Celebrations continued after the GWR Park festival, with the official Pride Afterparty held at The Steam Railway in Old Town and hosted by Adam All and Apple Derrières.
Swindon Pride was launched in 2008 and expanded to become Swindon & Wiltshire Pride the following year.
The organisation became a registered charity in 2019.
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