Thousands turn out to celebrate and enjoy Durham Pride 2026

People turned out at Palace Green from 10am this morning, eagerly anticipating the march.

The Green was awash with colour, happiness and smiles, as this year marked Pride’s biggest-ever event.

Durham Pride 2026 (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

This year’s event carried added significance following Durham County Council’s decision to withdraw funding.

In response, trade unions have stepped in to reaffirm their long‑standing alliance with the LGBT+ community, raising more than £15,500 to cover the shortfall.

Come 11am the march got underway, with trade unions, political parties, MPs, activists and musical performers all joining the walk.

The vibrant parade, which once again celebrated love, diversity and inclusion, headed down through Owengate and into Saddler Street.

Durham Pride 2026 (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

The procession moved into the Market Place before continuing along Claypath and looping via Providence Row and Freemans Place to reach The Sands.

Hundreds of people lined the streets of Durham to show their support and solidarity.

Many also gathered to watch the huge numbers of floats, banners and performers go past.

On arrival at The Sands, which was packed with people, food stalls, rides and a stage, County Durham drag queen Tess Tickle got the party started.

There were speeches from the Mayor of Durham Cllr Gary Hutchinson, who said there was “nowhere else today I’d rather be”.

Mayor of Durham Cllr Gary Hutchinson (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

He added: “This is the most colourful and happiest event I have attended as Mayor. Pride is a message of inclusivity and respect.”

City of Durham MP Mary Kelly Foy also made a speech.

The Labour MP said: “We know Pride began as a protest and at its heartbeat is that constant insistence that every single person deserves dignity, safety and joy.

Mary Kelly Foy (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

“In Durham, we don’t just march, we weave a tapestry of stories.

“We honour our LGBTQ+ elders who paved the way, we cheer for the young people who are writing the next chapter and we stand with those who can’t be visible yet and promise to keep a place at the table warm for them.”

The celebrations truly started after the speeches, with performances from the likes of Gareth Gates, Bradley from S Club and Claire Richards, as the thousands in attendance partied and rejoiced at the biggest-ever Durham Pride event.