Pride Cymru is evolving… here’s how
As we step into our 27th year, we’ve been reflecting on what Pride means in Wales today, and how we can make sure it continues to thrive for the next 27 years (and beyond!). We’re so grateful for the love, energy, and passion that has carried Pride Cymru this far, and we want to keep building something that celebrates and empowers our community for generations to come.
This year, we pressed pause before announcing our dates. Why? Because we wanted to make sure our plans truly reflect our purpose and the heart of our community.
Listening, Learning, and Growing Together
Your voices matter. Every piece of feedback, whether it’s uplifting or challenging, helps us shape Pride Cymru and keep improving year after year. We know not everyone will agree with every decision we make, and that’s okay. What we ask is that conversations happen with kindness and respect. We think we are on the right track.
Sadly, some of our volunteers have experienced abuse, including online attacks. This is really tough because Pride Cymru is run entirely by volunteers, people who give their time, skills, and energy to create a safe and inclusive space for all of us. We already face plenty of negativity from anti-LGBTQ+ groups; we don’t want to face it within our own community. Honest, constructive feedback helps us grow. Abuse does not.
Every decision we make is part of a bigger picture. Understanding that picture helps explain why certain choices are necessary, because one change often impacts another part of the festival.
Building for the Future 💪
To keep Pride Cymru strong and sustainable, we need a solid financial foundation. As a volunteer-led charity, we rely on grants, sponsorships, and ticket sales to make Pride happen. But just like many other live events across the UK, we’ve been hit by rising costs, everything from performer fees to equipment, insurance (over £25,000 just for Pride weekend!), and ever-tightening legal requirements. You would be staggered to learn just how much the loos cost us every year!
On top of that, public funding is less certain, and Pride organisations across the UK are finding sponsorship harder to secure. That’s why we need to plan carefully, partner with supportive businesses, and make sure Pride remains accessible while being financially sustainable.
This year, we’re making thoughtful changes to refresh the weekend and create a festival that’s exciting, inclusive, and built to last.
Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People 🌱
We know things are tough for LGBTQ+ young people right now. What once felt like a world moving forward can sometimes feel like it’s going backwards. That’s why creating spaces of joy, belonging, and safety is more important than ever.
So many people tell us their first Pride was life-changing. It was the moment they realised they weren’t alone. We want every young person to have that chance.
That’s why Pride Cymru is becoming completely free for under-15s. You belong here. Pride is for you.
What’s Changing in 2026 ✨
We’re heading back to the incredible Cardiff Castle! 🏰 By teaming up with Depot Live and sharing infrastructure, we can cut costs and focus even more energy on creating the moments that make Pride so unforgettable.
Here’s what the weekend will look like:
🌟 Saturday: The Big Celebration
Kicking off with the iconic parade and flowing into a full day of music, headline performers, local talent, and non-stop energy across multiple stages.
💖 Sunday: A Relaxed Pride Vibe
Think chilled, family-friendly, and community-focused. A perfect chance to enjoy Pride at a slower pace, whether you’re with little ones, chosen family, or simply fancy something more low-key. Tickets are just £5 for adults, and children 15 and under go free with a ticket-holding adult.
New for 2026: Friday night concert brought to you by TK Maxx presents DEPOT Live.
We’re thrilled that TK Maxx presents DEPOT Live will kick off the pride weekend celebrations with MIKA headlining Cardiff Castle on Friday 12 June 2026, joined by The Feeling and Gwenno. This event is run by DEPOT Live in collaboration with Pride Cymru and Cuffe and Taylor. For tickets or event enquiries, please visit depotlive.co.uk.
Tickets 🎟️
We know ticket prices are always a big question. Buying early really helps us plan, and it means you get the lowest price. For 2026, we’re introducing a refreshed pricing structure.
- Saturday tickets start at £12.50 (standard) and £37.50 (VIP).
- Sunday tickets are only £5.
- Under-15s tickets are now free
- Prices are locked until 31 January 2026.
When booking, you’ll be able to:
- Round up your ticket to donate a little extra to our charity.
- Take part in our new Pay It Forward scheme, buying an extra ticket for someone who might not otherwise be able to attend. More info on how to access these tickets will be shared in 2026.
Pride Cymru is evolving, but our heart remains the same: celebrating who we are, standing proud together, and creating a future where everyone belongs.
