More than 200,000 people to attend 139th Durham Miners' Gala
The Gala's known as the largest gathering of trade unionists in the country
The 139th Durham Miners' Gala is taking place today in city bringing tens of thousands of people together for the largest celebration of working-class and labour movement culture in Europe.
Organisers say it is known as The Big Meeting, it is the world’s greatest celebration of community, international solidarity, and working-class life – a unique and inspiring spectacle that brings more than 200,000 people to the streets of Durham.
This year’s Big Meeting returns with a message of resilience and defiance – ‘We are still here’ – to honour the coalfield communities who have kept the spirit of the Gala alive for more than a generation since the last pit closed.
The event is held on the second Saturday of July and sees trade unionists from across the country descend on Durham.
The Durham Miners’ Association (DMA) has reaffirmed that everyone is welcome at the Gala, regardless of background.
Highlights include wave after wave of banners, each typically accompanied by a brass band, which are marched to the old Racecourse, where political speeches are delivered. In the afternoon a miners' service is also held in Durham Cathedral which may include the blessing of any new banners.
Alan Mardghum, general secretary of Durham Miners' Association, said: "It's a gathering of trade unionists, political activists from around the world. There's various unions from around the world who've got a number of international visitors this year, miners from Australia and there's people from Poland.
"It has a massive impact. It must have a financial impact because you can't get into a pub. The hotels are all booked, the pubs are all packed out, the restaurants are packed out so the financial impact is absolutely massive."
Stephen Guy, chair of Durham Miners Association said: “The Gala is the biggest celebration of the trade union and labour movement in the UK, and has been since 1871.
"It brings together the people of the Durham coalfield, who come in their tens of thousands to march behind their banners and their bands. This is testament to the pride and sense of belonging that the people of County Durham have to their mining heritage and culture.
"The 2025 event honours the Gala as a trade union event with a strong tradition of community and international solidarity that is found throughout its long history. The coal mining industry may have gone but the people keep marching on - every second Saturday in July”
Dave Pike, Regional Secretary of the Trades Union Congress, North East, Yorkshire & Humber region, said: “This year’s Gala will showcase the strength, diversity, and internationalism of the modern trade union movement.
“Together, we will send a clear message that through solidarity, not division, we can build a better future.”
Key information:
• Banner groups and bands begin assembling in Durham City from 8.30am, with the main processions passing the County Hotel balcony at Old Elvet before continuing to the Racecourse field.
• The main rally begins at 1pm with speeches from trade union leaders, campaigners, and political guests.
• Following the rally, the Miners’ Festival Service will take place at Durham Cathedral at 3pm, featuring the blessing of new banners and a procession of brass bands.
The Gala will also continue its long tradition of international solidarity, with its first overseas speaker dating back to 1876. Among this year’s speakers will be Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian Ambassador to the UK – reflecting the Gala’s enduring support for people across the world who are fighting for justice, freedom, and peace.
To mark the 2025 Gala, the DMA has commissioned a special limited-edition art print by the renowned British artist Bob and Roberta Smith. Titled We Are Still Here!, the artwork celebrates the resilience of the Durham coalfield and proudly lists the 77 communities where union banners continue to march today. The print is available in return for a donation to support the Gala.
A version of the print in Pride colours will also be sold throughout the day, joint fundraising for both the Gala and Durham Pride.
Road closures:
- Road closures in central Durham begin from 4am today.
Information on coach parking, accessibility, park and ride options, and camping is available via the Durham Miners' Association website.
Police patrols:
Durham Constabulary say they will be patrolling the city throughout the day, and will be on hand to offer help and advice if anyone needs it.