Brighton Pride 2025 lit up Preston Park on Saturday with a spectacular Main Stage event that drew thousands of people in a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, community, and resilience. The day’s program blended iconic performers, emerging artists, and local favorites in a lively atmosphere charged with energy and inclusivity.
Parade to Preston Park: A Powerful Start, with the day beganning with the annual Pride parade winding through the city centre, culminating at Preston Park. The parade’s “Ravishing Rage” theme was evident in the bright colors, creative floats, and powerful messages of joy and defiance against discrimination. Crowds cheered as participants ranged from grassroots groups and charities to local NHS staff and queer elders, embodying the festival’s spirit of unity.
Afternoon Performances: A Mix of Legacy and New Voices with the Main Stage kicking off early afternoon with high-energy performances:
Party Bag opened the stage with their signature vibrant and playful style, setting an upbeat tone.
Next up was ABSNT MIND, whose dynamic set captured the attention of the diverse crowd with infectious beats and charisma.
The legendary Sister Sledge, featuring Kathy Sledge, graced the stage, bringing decades of experience and a warm connection with the audience.
Rising pop star Slayyyter energized the crowd with her edgy, futuristic sound and confident stage presence.
Breakout artist Ashnikko delivered a bold and spirited performance, combining rap, pop, and punk influences that resonated particularly with younger festival-goers.
The Australian dance-pop outfit Confidence Man impressed with their theatrical and high-octane set, showcasing their ability to get the crowd moving.
Swedish singer Loreen appeared later in the afternoon, delivering an emotive and powerful performance that reinforced her status as a Eurovision winner and LGBTQ+ icon.
The evening crescendo was marked by international superstar Mariah Carey, who took to the Main Stage as the headliner in front of a packed Preston Park. Carey’s performance was notable for her vocal strength and emotive delivery, displaying her signature talent with a blend of intimate moments and crowd engagement.
Her presence was also a strong statement of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, reflected not only in her performance but also in her costumes and messaging throughout the show. Although her movement was somewhat restrained, likely due to stage setup and wardrobe, the audience responded with enthusiastic applause and cheers.
Critics and fans alike remarked on the professionalism and warmth Carey brought to the stage, making it a memorable highlight of the day’s festivities.
Festival Atmosphere and Additional Highlights was apparent throughout the day, the atmosphere at Preston Park was one of joy, freedom, and togetherness. Festival-goers enjoyed not only the music but also the range of community stalls, food vendors, and interactive spaces that celebrated queer culture and supported local causes.
Beyond the Main Stage, the expanded Pride Street Party along Marine Parade and New Steine Gardens buzzed with energy, featuring multiple stages hosting drag shows, cabaret, DJ sets, and more — making the entire area pulse with pride and celebration well into the night.
Saturday’s Brighton Pride Main Stage perfectly balanced celebration and activism. The thoughtfully curated lineup showcased a range of artists who embody the festival’s themes of diversity, inclusion, and empowerment.
Mariah Carey’s headline set added an iconic flourish to the day, demonstrating how music and community unite to create unforgettable moments of pride.
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